Thousands walk for Darkness Into Light 98,026 people living with Asthma

tens of thousands of people have taken part in Darkness Into Light events to raise funds for the suicide and self-harm prevention charity Pieta. Walks, runs and swims were held at dawn across Ireland and around the world, raising millions of euro to support its services.

events got under way at 4.15am, when it was still dark.

One of the biggest was held in the Phoenix Park in Dublin, where up to 10,000 people turned out to complete the 5km route as the sun rose.

Darkness Into Light first began in 2009, when 400 people took part in a walk in the Phoenix Park to raise money for Pieta.

This year, more than 100,000 participants attended events in 200 locations in Ireland and 14 other countries, spanning five continents.

The organisers say DIL provides an opportunity for communities to come together and to bring hope to people who have been impacted by suicide.

It said the now global movement is dedicated to ending suicide and supporting those who engage in self-harm.

The charity said by taking part in Darkness Into Light, participants also play an important role in removing the stigma around suicide and self-harm.

Last year, €4.5m was raised through events, which helped to fund 156 helpline hours, 10,956 crisis counselling sessions and