'The most important sunrise of the year' - Thousands take part in this years Darkness into Light

Thousands have just finished this year's Darkness into light event.

The annual sunrise walk sees communities gather to bring hope to those impacted by suicide.

Thousands of people who have been impacted by suicide gathered in Hannahstown overnight.

Each year the walk provides an opportunity for people to connect with their local community. The 5k sunrise walk began overnight at 4.15 at Lamh Dhearg.

Martin Fegan is part of the organising committee; he spoke to Cool FM/Downtown exclusively: “I got involved a few years ago because we had a family member die by suicide, and I saw the impact. I thought if I can so something to help and give back, I’ll do it. Just seeing what people are getting from it, for me there is great value in that.”

He described the event, saying it is the most important sunrise of the year: “It is a sobering experience… but there is also a sense of togetherness. People come back each year because there is something in it for them. There is a certain buzz about the place. You see people hugging each other.”

He went on to give this advice to anyone who is struggling: “Just believe. Life is the most important gift you’ll ever get, and you should really value it. No matter how bad it is at the time. It might seem dark today, but there is hope. If you’re in the dark place, tomorrow you could be in the light, because of this event.”

The money raised from the event is going towards Suicide Awareness & Support Group, which is located on the Falls road in Belfast. Margaret Walker is the centre manager for the group and one of the founders. She told us of how grateful she is for the event and the organisers. Her brother sadly died by suicide.

“If my brother was here today, he would be a daddy, he has a daughter who is now 24. He lost out on her life, and all her milestones. I would dare say if there had of been a group or a walk-in service or a crisis service that Jim could have phoned or walked into, that he would have the opportunity to spend the rest of his life with his daughter, Rebecca."

She described it as a ‘privilege’ to be able to share her story and show people who are going through similar situations, that she is now in the healing process.

She went on to say her organisation wants to, “help one person every day. That is all we aim to do. And I believe that early intervention, prevents post intervention.”

She spoke of the importance of checking up on those around you: “Ask twice, sometimes asking (if you are okay) again, hits the pause button for someone to say ‘actually, I am not okay.’ And that can open up a new conversation.”

If you are impacted by this story, Lifeline has more support numbers you can call, as well as the Samaritans.

You can hear more about this story on our hourly bulletins: https://planetradio.co.uk/cool-fm/

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