by Evelyn Cullen
THE streets of Letterkenny came alive with quiet chatter in the small hours of Saturday morning, as around 1,500 people turned out to do the 17th annual Darkness into Light walk to raise funds for mental health charity Pieta House, which supports those affected by suicide and self-harm.
Participants didn’t start to arrive to the grounds of the ATU (Atlantic Technological University), the starting point for the walk, until almost 4am for the start-time of 4.15am, perhaps leaving it until the last minute so they could get as much shut-eye as possible before the middle-of -the-night wake-up.
It was a sea of yellow tshirts, the easily recognisable uniform of the event, worn over jumpers and jackets as the crowd set off in the cool morning air, turning left as they exited the ATU to go along the Port Road.
The group walked together at a leisurely pace, round past the Mount Errigal Hotel and on through Ballyraine. The route then took them back into the town centre and up the Port Road which was lined with tea light candles.
Here, they were welcomed by the beautiful music of the Colmcille Gospel Choir from Ramelton, who sang outside An Grianán Theatre, creating a poignant soundtrack for the event.
Many stopped for a moment to enjoy the music and let tears flow quietly, allowing the music to help release grief and the difficult emotions that are often held back in the rhythm of daily life.
Dedicated volunteers from Donegal Volunteer Centre were a notable presence, as they always are at events around the county, arranging the candles, guiding walkers and creating a safe and welcoming environment for all.
The night was still dark as they walked to the bottom of the main street, over the Pearse road and made their way back to the ATU, finishing where they started.
It was shortly after 5am when the first walkers arrived back, coming full circle.
As they moved together from the dark of the night into the morning light, the sun began to glow softly from behind the hills and the message was clear: there is light at the end of the dark tunnel of depression, help is out there and no-one has to suffer alone.
After the walk, the Counter Deli on Canal Road was opened especially to provide refreshments, which they have been doing since 2016.
As well as proceeds from all the teas, coffees and cakes sold going to Pieta House, the cafe is also collecting funds through buckets which will remain out on their counters until Wednesday. Local family-run bakery Blistered Bread also supplied pastries to The Counter, with proceeds from sales also going to Pieta House.
“We were delighted to support this worthy event again and we want to thank everyone who participated” said Elaine Baxter, owner of The Counter. “It was a cause close to Richard’s heart and we are happy to continue his legacy” she added, referring to former owner Richard Finney, who sadly passed away by suicide in 2023.
“There was a lovely atmosphere and a real sense of togetherness. The beautiful weather was a great bonus as it meant people could sit outside and enjoy their coffees after the walk and chat.”
Darkness into Light walks took place in 13 locations around the county, hundreds of locations across the country and more besides around the world, the event’s international presence underscoring its universal message of hope and solidarity.
Anyone in need of support is encouraged to contact Pieta via pieta.ie, or by calling 0818 111 126. If more immediate crisis support is required, you can contact the Pieta Crisis Helpline 24/7 at 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444. Pieta’s Crisis Helpline is staffed by therapists 365 days a year to offer immediate support over the phone.
A smile for the selfie before the walk in Letterkenny.
Denis O’Donnell and Jimmy Glesson.
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