Over 1,300 attend 1st ever Darkness Into Light in Corkagh Park

(Pictured above, left to right, are the Corkagh Park Darkness Into Light Committee 2022 Emer Higgins TD, Niamh Fitzsimons, Jancie Moseley, Rachel Boggans, Lisa Byrne, Ellie Boggans, Sharon Green,  Michelle Byrne, Lorraine Nugent, Treasa Kelly and Dee Hayden from Pieta.)

Over 1,300 people attended the first ever Darkness Into Light walk held in Corkagh Park.

The event was a huge success with hundreds of people taking part to raise thousands of euro for Pieta.

“For the first year ever, Corkagh Park played host to our very own Darkness Into Light event,” said Michelle Byrne, Co-Chair of Corkagh Park, Darkness Into Light.

“It was organised by a committed team of volunteers who wanted to make a difference and we were thrilled so many people came out to support the fundraiser for Pieta.

“Thankfully the weather was perfect for the walk which started at 4.15am.

“We had music from the Dublin Gospel Choir, the RAMs in Rhythm and some amazing young local musicians who were dotted around the park.

“The route was decorated by tea lights and fairy lights as well as some incredible artwork made by local groups and schools.

“It was a really special morning that ignited hope right across our community.”

Lorraine Nugent, Co-Chair of the organising committee, said the local community in Clondalkin helped make the first ever Corkagh Park Darkness Into Light walk unforgettable.

“Every year Darkness Into Light provides an opportunity for people to connect with their local community and to bring hope to people who have been impacted by suicide,” she said.

“Clondalkin really got behind this sentiment to make Corkagh Park’s first Darkness Into Light a success for Pieta.

“The event would not have been possible without the support of local businesses and South Dublin County Council, and it would not have been a success without the hundreds of people who got up in the middle of the night to support this flagship fundraiser for Pieta.

“We are already looking forward to next year.”

Clondalkin was one of many locations that provided an opportunity to raise awareness and hope in the global fight against suicide and self-harm.

Since Darkness Into Light began, Pieta supporters have helped raise almost €29 million, which has enabled the charity to keep their doors and 24/7 helpline open for people in crisis, free of charge.