PICTURES: 'A sunrise like no other' - Laois community come together for Darkness into Light

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A sunrise like no other, Darkness into Light provides an important opportunity for people from every walk of life to come together and support those impacted by suicide.

As families, friends, work colleagues and individuals gathered at the Irish Prison Service College on the Dublin Road in Portlaoise shortly after 4am on Saturday, May 10 the early morning quietness was filled with hope.

Families of those affected by suicide held photos of loved ones while candles were lit symbolising that there is help and support out there for anyone struggling.

There was music, teas and coffees, and even a quick warm up session to get everyone ready for the 5km walk around the county town.

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Governor of Midlands Prison Michael O'Mahony spoke about why this annual event is so important.

"Your presence here means more than you may realise. By being here today for what we call the most important sunrise of the year you are doing something powerful. You’re not just showing up for this moment; you are standing up for hope, for compassion, and for change.

"We call it the most important sunrise not just because of what happens here this morning, but because of what it makes possible," said Governor O'Mahony.

"The funds raised today support Pieta’s work for the other 364 sunrises — available 24 hours a day, every day, every night. Your generosity helps to fund Pieta’s life-saving suicide prevention services. Last year, thanks to your kindness, Pieta provided over 51 thousand hours of free therapy, answered more than 114 thousand calls & texts to the 24/7 Crisis Helpline. & Pieta stood alongside more than 500 families devastated by suicide.

"Today, as we walk together — not just here, but across Ireland and around the world — you are doing something extraordinary: You are putting your arms around those who have lost someone to suicide. You are giving space to remember, to reflect, to grieve — and to hope. You are helping those who are struggling today to hold on, to believe that there is a way through. You are breaking through the silence and the stigma.

"You are showing that it’s okay to talk, to ask for help, to say “I’m not okay.”

"Whether you are here with friends, family, colleagues, or whether you arrived on your own this morning please know, you are not alone. The entire Darkness Into Light community is walking with you, every step of the way. You are the light that will ignite hope in so many hearts. Thank you so much for being here."

Governor O’Mahony thanked his fellow Midlands Prison committee-members, support partners ESB, Sherry Fitzgerald Hyland Keating & all of the volunteers for their hard work in organising the event, their sponsors Electric Ireland, Avonmore and Junction 17.

Along the route there was laughter, chats about the gorgeous weather and what a beautiful sunrise it was. Volunteers cheered on the walkers as they made their way back to the finishing point and headed home filled with a sense of community and hope.

Huge crowds also gathered in Portarlington for the Darkness Into Light event in the town while unofficial events were held at various locations around the county.