Wexford ready to go from Darkness Into Light with five events planned
IN houses right across Co Wexford next Saturday, alarms will go off in the wee small hours. Bleary-eyed, participants will pull on the yellow and blue colours of Darkness Into Light and make their way to their designated starting points for what has become one of the most inspiring events of its kind.
The flagship annual event for Pieta House, not only does Darkness Into Light function as a vital fundraiser for the mental health charity, but each year the walk has become a beacon of hope. It’s an opportunity for people who have been touched by suicide to come together, share experiences, talk things through or just remember those who have gone before us.
The symbolism of walking from darkness into the sunrise of another day is key and those who regularly participate describe it as a truly inspiring event.
At 4.15 a.m. at several locations across Wexford, thousands of walkers will set off on their journey.
In Wexford town, the walk will set off from St Joseph’s Community Centre; the Enniscorthy event will set off from Rappareess Starlights GAA Club in Bellefield; New Ross Darkness Into Light will begin at The Apex Sport Health and Leisure Centre; The Rosslare event starts at Bearlough, ( Y35Y93X) and the Courtown event will begin at Ballinatray Lower ( Y25H7W1).
Chairperson of the Wexford town event Liam McCabe for a big turnout and that the rain will hold off.
“We’re expecting between two and three thousand people in Wexford town,” he said. “Most people tend to register in advance, but we’ ll also have some registrations on the day. As well as that, people will be able to donate on the morning.
“There’s not too much we can do about the weather, but we haven’t had a wet morning for it yet since we started in 2017, so fingers crossed that will continue!”
Chairperson of the New Ross team Sinéad Dolan said: “We’re delighted the event is returning to New Ross this year and the response and efforts of all concerned to date is heart-warming.
“It signifies the amount of support in the community to ensure Pieta can continue to provide services and support to anyone in crisis. There is hope and help available and our aim is to reduce stigma and reach in.
“There isn’t a family unit or group in the country immune to mental health hicups or stress, the conversation is the starting point, by listening or facilitating people to access services locally is a life saving tool everyone can offer.
“We’ve raised nearly €7000 in fees and donations to date and if you decide to come along on the night nobody will be turned away, just drop a few bob in treasurer Regina Roche’s bucket!”
Aoife Cullen, Co Chairperson added: “This national fundraiser helps fund appointments in Pieta House in Wexford and run their 24hr helpline 1800 247 247. “
It’s still not too late to sign up to your local event and you can do so by visiting darknessintolight.ie. People are also welcome to come along and donate on the morning.
For more information on Darkness Into Light, events happening in your area, and the work that Pieta House is doing around the country, visit darknessintolight.ie.