The 2023 Darkness into Light events in Waterford have officially been launched.
People gathered in the Park Hotel in Dungarvan last night (Monday) with representatives from the Carrick-on-Suir, Waterford City and Dungarvan committees in attendance.
"It's important that we all cooperate," Des Purcell, Chairman of Waterford City's Darkness Into Light, told WLR News at the event, "We all run individually but it's all for the same cause.
"It is an ongoing event that attracts very substantial support in the three locations.
"I think people do it for very personal reasons, given what Pieta is involved in. But all organisations, whether you are sporting or cultural or like us, need public support and we suffer without it."
Every year, thousands of euro is raised for Pieta, which is a charity providing therapeutic services to people who are in suicidal distress, and who also have a Southeast Centre at No. 20, Waterside, Waterford City.
Race walker, Kate Veale, was the guest of honour at last night's launch.
"I think it's a great event and I'm honoured and delighted to have been asked to be a part of it," she told WLR News.
"I think it's a special movement and now it's worldwide and helping to raise awareness and vital funds for Pieta. They offer life-changing services and they have a vision of a world where suicide, self-harm and stigma is replaced by hope, self-care and acceptance.
"It's lovely to be part of that and to help with that."
The West Waterford athlete, who landed her 20th National title in the 3,000 metre walk in February, stressed the benefits of exercise when it comes to positive mental health.
"I am a massive advocate for exercise for what it does for your mental health," she said.
"It is incredible and that sense of connection and community and people coming together is really important as well.
"I think that's really healing and powerful. And just being out in nature, connecting with everybody and with your community."
Representatives from Pieta were also present for the launch in the Park Hotel, including Nichola Mullen, Director of Fundraising with Pieta.
"Without the local people and the volunteers, Darkness into Light wouldn't be what it is today," she said, paying tribute to all those involved across Waterford's three walks.
"... Waterford is a very significant event in the Darkness into Light calendar and it has been growing year-on-year.
"I think the people of Waterford really understand the need for the services of Pieta and they really rise up every year to come out and support their local committees in making sure that the services are there for people when they need them.
"It's a huge undertaking and they play such an important role in the world of Pieta - we couldn't be more grateful."
This year's Waterford walks are taking place in the following locations on May 6th:
Waterford City: 4.15am at the RSC
Dungarvan: 4.15am at St Augustine's College
Carrick-on-Suir: 4.15am at Green School, St.Mary’s CBS Primary
For all your latest Waterford news and sport, click here.
