PICTURES: ‘You are not alone’: Limerick parish launches third Darkness into Light walk

THE PEOPLE of Pallasgreen have added dancing to their third annual Darkness into Light walk.

Organisers premiered a video of the dance at the launch of the event for Pieta which takes place at 4.15am on Saturday, May 10. The video was inspired by the Jerusalema song and the moves we all remember as a sign of hope during the dark days of Covid.

Locals, students from Scoil na Trionoide Naofa in Doon, residents of St Anthony’s Nursing Home, Pallasgreen LGFA and even horses and riders from Garranemore Equestrian Centre move to the eponymous beat. It also includes 2025 World Irish Dance Championships qualifier Leah Pearse displaying her talent with dancers at the beautiful grotto at Nicker church. 

The video, created by Kilmallock’s Jack O’Shea, concludes with the walk’s three brand ambassadors - Leah Ward, newly appointed paramedic, John Mulready, Irish Red Cross and former station officer of Cappamore Fire Station and Chris McMahon, Cappamore Fire Station.

READ MORE: Limerick parish embodies the spirit of Darkness Into Light in moving video

Suzie O’Kelly, organiser of the walk along with Dara Fraher and Ger O’Connell, told the large crowd in Pallasgreen Community Centre: “We're here for a reason. A reason that touches all of us. We're here to shine a light on suicide and to bring it out of the shadows, and to say, loudly and clearly: We are here to help stop suicide. This year's campaign is simple, yet powerful: help stop suicide.” 

Suzie said those three words carry so much weight. 

“They carry the weight of loss, the weight of pain, but also the weight of hope. We know that some of you here tonight have walked that darkness. We know some of you have lost loved ones. We know some of you may be carrying that weight right now. 

And to you, I say this: You are not alone.  There is light at the end of the tunnel. There is support. There is hope. Please, reach out. Talk to someone. Let us help you find your way. 

“We walk together, not just to remember those we've lost, but to prevent future loss. We walk to say we see you, we hear you, and we are here for you.” 

Suzie said Pieta, the heart of this movement, does incredible, life-saving work but they can't do it alone. The charity that provides a range of services to people who are experiencing thoughts of suicide, those who engage in self-harm, and those bereaved by suicide, was represented by Olivia Callery.

“They rely on us. They rely on your generosity. They rely on your support. Every euro raised, every step taken, every conversation started, makes a difference. 

“So, let's make this year's walk the most impactful yet. Let's make it a beacon of hope. Let's make it a testament to the strength of our community.”

Suzie said they are deeply honoured to have local first responders - Leah, John and Chris - as their brand ambassadors. 

“Their role extends far beyond physical emergencies, as they are often the crucial first point of contact in mental health crises, those critical ten seconds where their intervention can be life-saving.

“To truly acknowledge their vital contribution, our first responders will be the very first to walk in Pallasgreen. This is a deliberate and symbolic gesture.

“They will lead the way, from the community centre, embodying the immediate support and critical intervention they provide in moments of mental health need within our community.

“Following their initial steps, our group of dancers will perform the Jerusalema dance. This represents our collective hope, unity, and the community coming together in support.” 

The wider community will then join the walk. The video of the Jerusalema dance received so much applause at the launch that it was played a second time and men and women got off their seats and did an impromptu dance performance!