Pieta House’s light shines across the world

THE annual Darkness into Light event that gives hope to many and raises funds for suicide prevention in Ireland will be joined by participants across the world this year.

The growing expat communities in London and Sydney are getting involved to support Irish suicide prevention charity Pieta House.

Both cities will be hosting similar events on Saturday, May 10 in tandem with those staged here at home.

Darkness into Light is a unique, early morning experience that begins in darkness at 4.15am as thousands of people walk or run a 5km route while dawn is breaking.

The early dawn represents hope and is symbolic of the work of Pieta House, of bringing people from darkness back into the light.

RTÃ? TV presenters Sinead Kennedy and London-based Eoghan McDermott were on hand this week to launch the national suicide prevention charity’s annual event that is now in its sixth year.

Held in association with Electric Ireland, this is the first time it has gone international.

Speaking at the launch in The Little Museum of Dublin, Joan Freeman, CEO and founder of Pieta House, said:

“Darkness into Light is an incredible experience and one that people remember for a long, long time.

“There’s already huge anticipation and with so many new locations involved for 2014 it’s going from strength to strength.

“We’re tying this year’s event in with our Mind Our Men campaign that aims to reduce male suicide in Ireland, so I want to ask everyone to bring a male friend or family member with them.

“We’re making a big push this year to get all the men out – it means an early rise but they won’t regret it.

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Last year Darkness into Light attracted over 40,000 participants in 20 locations around Ireland. With this year’s event taking place in 39 locations, Pieta House is hoping for a near doubling of last year’s turnout.

“Electric Ireland is delighted to support Pieta House’s Darkness into Light event for the second year,

? said Jim Dollard, Executive Direct.

“Last year, more than 40 per cent of Electric Ireland staff took part. We hope our energy in promoting this initiative will motivate more and more people in communities around the country to get involved.

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He added:

“Pieta House has really captured the heart of the nation by demonstrating support and empathy for people affected by suicide. Electric Ireland is happy to play its part in supporting them.

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Pieta House said the Darkness into Light event is the most vital component on their fundraising calendar.

As demand for the service continues to grow and with more than 80 per cent of Pieta House’s income depending on public donations, funds raised during Darkness into Light are essential for Pieta House to continue to provide a free service for the increasing numbers seeking help.

Proceeds from last year’s event helped to fund Pieta House’s recent expansion into counties Cork, Galway and Kerry.

Registration for Darkness into Light with Electric Ireland is available online now at dil.pieta.ie.