Darkness into Light walk will not take place in Athlone this year
by Kevin O'Neill
It has been announced by Pieta House Athlone that its annual 5km walk, Darkness Into Light, will not be taking place this year.
The 11th edition of the walk in Athlone, which was part of the suicide prevention charity's overall national fundraising campaign, took place last May and attracted strong support locally, with approximately 1,500 people taking part in the dawn walk.
In a statement issued by local organisers of the walk, Pieta House Athlone said expressed its disappointment at having to make the decision.
“It is with great sadness that we must share that Darkness Into Light will not take place in Athlone this year. We know how meaningful this walk is for so many people in our community - a time to come together, remember loved ones, support one another, and Pieta, as we move from darkness into light. We sincerely apologise to everyone who was hoping to take part this year,” the statement read.
It continued: “We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the former organising committee for the time, dedication and care they gave in bringing this event to our community over the years. Their commitment made a real difference to so many people. If anyone would be interested in helping to form a committee for future events, your support would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your understanding and for continuing to show such compassion and support for one another.”
The statement further added that if there's anyone interested in possibly forming a future organising committee for events, they can contact sinead.ronanwells@pieta.ie
Pieta House has been running the Darkness Into Light walk for 16 years and usually attracts up to 100,000 people across 12 countries to help to stop suicide and self-harm. The walk funds lifesaving suicide prevention and self-harm services, always beginning in darkness and transitioning into light, symbolising the journey from despair to hope.
Last year, walks also took place in Ballymahon and Ballymore, while local GAA clubs Tang GAA and Tubber GAA also organised walks in aid of the charity.