by Joseph Chaplin
100 people turned out at The Clarion Hotel last Monday evening for the official opening of this year’s Darkness Into Light event. Joan Freeman, CEO of suicide and self-harm support centre Pieta House opened the 2014 event. Darkness Into Light is an annual fundraising event, which will this year take place on Saturday, May 10.
The event is unique in that it begins at 4.15am, as participants run or walk as morning breaks. Limerick has been the host of this fundraiser since 2010, and this year welcomes a second venue in the county. Newcastle West will become the only other Limerick venue to host the run.
Monday’s launch was attended by Limerick Mayor Kathleen Leddin, Michael Leahy of Limerick FC, GAA stars Thomas Lee, Mark O’Riordan, and Seanie Tobin, as well as Masterchef’s Pat O’Sullivan.
Eamon Phelan of the Limerick County Board was also present while event sponsors Electric Ireland, was represented by Kevin Ryan. Afterwards, Gretta O’Shea led The Unity Gospel Choir in providing music for the evening.
Last year’s Darkness Into Light event attracted over 40,000 participants in 39 locations around Ireland and Pieta House are hoping to double that number on May 10.
International runs are also organised in cities such as London and Sydney. Limerick’s run begins at Thomond Park and Newcastle West’s will this year begin at the community centre.
This year, Pieta House are linking Darkness Into Light into Mind Our Men, promoting awareness of suicide in males of all ages and are asking participants to bring a male with them -be they a friend, colleague or family member.
Pieta House Midwest is based in Mungret, Limerick and can be contacted on 061 484444.
