Who said? That’s why I don’t look bad for 84.”

Darkness Into Light, Pieta’s annual fundraising event to raise money for lifesaving suicide and self-harm support and sponsored by Electric Ireland, is back at 4.15am on

Saturday, May 11, 2024.

With 100,000 participants expected at more than 230 official walks across four continents and many more taking part to fundraise in their own way, Darkness Into Light 2024 will bring communities together for the most important sunrise of the year, beginning in darkness and continuing through to dawn, symbolising the journey from despair to hope.

Launched by Bláthnaid Treacy, Erica Cody and Eoin Doyle, the ambassadors are calling on the public to sign up today and support Pieta’s agship fundraiser.

Bláthnaid said, “I am beyond proud to work with Pieta and Electric Ireland to support Darkness

Into Light this year. Having participated with friends and family for as long as I can remember, it truly is the most important sunrise of the year and I look forward to taking part again this year.”

To put into context the scale of services provided by Pieta and the ongoing need for donations, last year, the charity received 100,000 calls and texts to its crisis helpline, provided nearly 52,000 hours of therapy and saw close to 7,000 clients across the country. The charity also supported over 600 families and households bereaved by suicide.

Pieta depends on the funds generated by Darkness Into Light, with over 85% of the charity’s annual income coming from public fundraising.

By participating in the event, supporters can make a real and tangible difference, as the €26 sign-up fee for Darkness Into Light can enable Pieta to answer two calls to their 24/7 helpline, providing immediate support and guidance to those in crisis.