Darkness into Light (DIL)

May 14, 2018

Darkness into Light (DIL) is the flag ship event for Pieta House. Pieta offers free SLX-Darkness-into-light-2018-dil-1counselling to those suffering from suicidal ideation. It also supports those who’ve been bereaved by suicide and people who are engaging in self-harm. DIL is now an annual event with a global reach, becoming an iconic occasion for the vital purpose and necessity of Pieta House. With this in mind, this year some of our SLX team signed up to raise awareness and take part in it’s ten year anniversary.

Darkness into Light 2018 (DIL)

DIL was born in 2009, with 400 participants glowing in their iconic yellow t-shirts taking on a 5km walk in Dublin’s Phoenix Park. No one had an idea of how big the event would become. This is the first year that SLX came together for this very important cause and we can honestly say it was an extremely heart warming experience on the morning of May 12th. Together we took off at 4.15am with thousands of other walkers to highlight suicide prevention and tackle the stigma that leads people to the doors of Pieta House centres.

The dark morning began with important speeches and welcome choir singing as people collected their candles before falling into line. We quietly waited as the hundreds of participants arrived and joined the event. Our walk through the park had highlights such as talented choir singers and keyboard players dotted along the paths and bridges. We even received the odd honk of support from passing lorry drivers. Some trees, and walkers, were decorated with colourful fairy lights which all contributed to the positive mood.

The whole morning is a reflective experience with times to chat and times to have a moment to yourself. Everyone has a quiet moment to think of that special someone who’s struggling, or maybe they’re struggling them selves. The early start and chill to the air can be off putting but the rewarding sense of community and support confirmed how important DIL is to families and friends alike. SLX-Darkness-into-light-2018-dil-2 With thanks to a remarkably clear sky, upon reaching the 5km mark there was the sunrise to greet us at the finish line.

There was a real sense of support in walking, together, from the darkness into light.

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