P.E.I. Celts to host sunrise walks

Islanders invited to ‘Out of the Darkness and Into the Light’ events for mental health

“Taking part in this family orientated event is the first step in eradicating the stigma around suicide and mental health because for the children who take part, the conversation has already begun.” Shane O’Neill

The P.E.I. Celts Gaelic Athletic Association will be hosting two sunrise walks to raise awareness and funds for suicide prevention.

The first walk takes place May 12 at 5 a.m., beginning at the Victoria Park pool in Charlottetown.

The second is the following day, May 13, 5 a.m., beginning at the Lobster Shack, Main Street, Souris.

Registration is $25 for participant 18 years of age and over.

Children and youth under the age of 18 participate for free.

Refreshments (coffee, tea, muffins) will follow each event.

People are encouraged to preregister online at pei.cmha.ca/ events or call 902-566-3034.

All proceeds will go to the Canadian Mental Health Association – P.E.I. division.

Organizers are driven by a vision of a world where suicide, self-harm and stigma have been replaced by hope, self-care and acceptance.

This is the second year this event is being held in Charlottetown.

In 2017, individuals from across the Island walked from Victoria Park at dawn, and ended at Confederation Landing, as the sun rose to greet them.

“The demographic for this extraordinary event is quite special in that it truly gathers people of all ages; plenty of people in their 20s and 30s, as well as older and children and babies,” said Shane O’Neill of the Gaelic Celts Athletic Association.

“Taking part in this family orientated event is the first step in eradicating the stigma around suicide and mental health because for the children who take part, the conversation has already begun.”

Bianca McGregor manager of fund development, marketing and promotions for CMHAP.E.I., is excited about this unique initiative.

“We hope to see lots of Islanders out to participate in these walks which will take place on the last two days of CMHA’s National Mental Health Week,” she said.

“We can’t think of a better way to end this campaign.”