Darkness Into Light Luxembourg is part of a worldwide initiative to raise awareness of suicide and self-harm and to provide those grieving or those suffering with a community and a chance to see that they are not alone in their struggle.
The very first walk was held in Dublin back in 2009, and since then has spread across the world, organised by Ireland’s Pieta House alongside a host of dedicated volunteers. One of those volunteers is Caoimhe Alliot, a translator at the European Commission who moved to Luxembourg in 2006. The mother of two helped to launch Darkness Into Light in the Grand Duchy in 2019, as she wanted to do something positive and spread awareness after losing her mother to mental illness.
This year, Darkness Into Light Luxembourg is hoping to attract more young people, particularly teens, encouraging them to spread awareness of suicide and self-harm, as well as providing a safe space for support. The walk is not just about fundraising, although the initiative regularly raises thousands for charity - it is really for and about the participants.
All donations made in Luxembourg are distributed to Luxembourg-based charities, along with 50% of the registration fees. Under the patronage of Grand Duchess Maria Teresa, the walk supports Kannerjugendtelefon, which provides support and counselling to children and young people, as well as the SOS Detresse helpline and the Luxembourg Mental Health League.
This year’s walk starts at 5am in Clausen on 11 May, and will see hundreds of walkers greet the sunrise. To find out more about how to participate, visit the website.
Caoimhe sat down with Today Radio’s Melissa Dalton on Tuesday to discuss the walk and how it helps to support those affected by mental illness. Follow the full interview below or on RTL Play.
