Kiltimagh holds special launch of Darkness into Light

The community of Kiltimagh gathered with several special guests last Thursday evening to hold the official launch and registration evening for its Darkness into Light walk, which is to take place in the early hours of Saturday, May 9.

In collaboration with Swinford Darkness into Light (who are taking a break this year), this is the second time the Darkness Into Light walk will be hosted by Kiltimagh, with overwhelming support already received from across the community. Darkness into Light, sponsored by Electric Ireland, is Pieta’s annual fundraising event to raise money for lifesaving suicide and self-harm support and takes place on the most important sunrise of the year, beginning in darkness at 4.15am and continuing through to dawn, symbolising the journey from despair to hope.

The Kiltimagh walk begins at the Bocce Courts and traverses the hinterlands of Cordarragh and Kilcon in Kiltimagh taking participants on just under a five kilometre looped walk before finishing back at the Bocce Courts at dawn.

The Darkness Into Light Kiltimagh chairperson is Joe Corry who together with a passionate and dedicated group of volunteers has spearheaded an extremely successful campaign to date. Thursday’s launch, which took place in Ryan’s Bar in Kiltimagh, was attended by guests, Sergeant Regina Carley, Dr Diarmuid Murray GP, and Mr and Mrs. Redmond and Geraldine Murphy who shared their heartfelt story about their beloved son Red Óg Murphy who died by suicide.

“Suicide prevention and mental health support services is something which myself and all members of the committee are absolutely passionate about,” said Joe Corry.

“Whether you’ve been directly impacted by suicide or self-harm, or simply want to show your support, we are asking everyone in Kiltimagh and the surrounding communities to register to come out and walk with us this year. Together, we can help bring hope to people who need it and work to prevent suicide and self-harm in our community,” continued Joe. 

“Darkness into Light is more than a fundraiser – it’s a powerful statement of hope, solidarity, and community support.” 

Whether you take part to remember a loved one, honour a personal journey, show solidarity, or make sure suicide and self-harm prevention services remain available in Ireland, every step you take and every euro you raise will help Pieta continue offering free, professional support to those at risk of suicide, self-harm, or affected by suicide – 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Over 100,000 calls and texts are answered annually, and more than 6,000 people are supported through Pieta’s free therapy services each year.

“In my professional capacity as a Garda Sergeant, I have witnessed the devastating loss and grief that suicide causes families, friends and the wider community,” emphasised Sergeant Regina Carley, adding: “This is why I am honoured to be here this evening to offer my support to the Darkness into Light Kiltimagh initiative, where monies raised from this campaign will help continue to provide vital funds for Pieta’s Suicide Prevention Services. I am also personally encouraged to see so many here in support of the campaign where the importance of mental health and wellbeing is endorsed and shared by all cohorts across our community.” 

Darkness into Light Kiltimagh gets underway at 4.15am on Saturday, May 9. For more information, to register, or to find out how you can get involved, visit www.darknessintolight.ie and select Mayo/Kiltimagh or follow the group on Facebook and Instagram.