Gallery: Darkness Into Light Meath

Darkness Into Light, Pieta's biggest fundraising event supported by Electric Ireland, took place last Saturday, 10th May 2025. Thousands participated in 5km walks across 197 locations in Ireland including a number in Meath and abroad, raising funds for Pieta, the suicide and self-harm prevention charity.

“In times of uncertainty, mental health struggles, and grief, hope is not just a feeling, it’s a lifeline,” said Navan Cllr Yemi Adenuga who attended the Darkness Into Light walk in Navan.

“And today, that hope was made visible by our children, our women, our men, our entire community.

“Well done to the organisers, the early risers, and everyone who walked or donated. We’ve made a difference. Let’s keep walking toward the light, for ourselves, for each other, and for a future filled with compassion.”

Darkness into Light events took place in Duleek, Trim, Enfield, Laytown/Bettystown, Moynalty, Navan, and Fairyhouse Racecourse close to Ratoath.

"The weather gods were smiling down on us again this year and that really boosted the turnout for our walk. I'd say we had close to 2,000 take part in this year's event and that continued support is crucial in helping raise funds for Pieta and the services they provide," said Trim Darkness Into Light committee member, James Lavelle.

"We are blessed with probably the most scenic walk in the country and the feedback when everyone returned to the GAA clubhouse for a cup of tea and a chat was all very positive. We already can't wait for next year's walk."

Darkness Into Light Fairyhouse took a moment on their Facebook page to “fondly” remember councillor Damien O’Reilly who passed away in 2023.

“We miss Damien greatly, but we know he was with us in spirit.”

“And lastly, but definitely not least a massive thank you to all 1,027 people who set alarms extra early and came to Fairyhouse to raise awareness and vital funds for suicide awareness and mental health.”

Fairyhouse Racecourse was not the only event with a massive crowd with a spokesperson for Laytown/Bettystown Darkness Into Light stating there was 822 officially registered for the event “but it became apparent very soon from the numbers arriving that we had a lot more than that.”

“We’ve had people come from as far as Navan and Ashbourne over the years. Since we started this event five years ago with a lockdown in there for one of them, our event has gone from strength to strength but it couldn’t be done without our volunteers and local businesses in Laytown and Bettystown whose support was again fantastic this year.”

We were delighted to have (actor) Helen Behan, our local ambassador, there who took time out from filming to come along and support too.

Darkness Into Light is a vital initiative providing a lifeline to those affected by suicide or self-harm. Community members set off from locations including GAA clubs, churches, and schools in the pre-dawn darkness, completing the 5km walk as the sun rises – a powerful symbol of hope for those in distress or who have been bereaved through suicide.

Pieta provides easily accessible, free-of-charge services online, by phone, or in person to people of all ages and backgrounds. Pieta and Electric Ireland are reminding people that donations can still be made online at www.darknessintolight.ie and every donation is a valuable contribution towards Pieta’s vital therapy and support services for those impacted by suicide.

Pieta’s Crisis Helpline is staffed by qualified therapists 365 days a year to offer immediate support over the phone.