Just over a month ago, John and Majella Roche in Doneraile set out in the hopes of raising €3,000 for the suicide and self harm charity Pieta House, but they have been overwhelmed by the positive response having now raised €9,500 with the aspiration of that figure soaring to €10,000 over the coming week. 

The Roche's set up the Doneraile '60 Club' asking people to pledge €50 or take a sponsorship card to take part in the Darkness Into Light walk in Mallow and were simply blown away by the response.

In the wee hours of Saturday morning last, more than 3,000 people took to the streets of Mallow to take part in the town's first Darkness Into Light walk for Pieta House, while more than 120 people walked behind the Doneraile '60 Club' banner.

The Chairperson of the Mallow branch of Darkness Into Light, Eamonn Horgan from Doneraile said that the Roche's had put a huge amount of effort into the project and it was great for them to get such a huge response, but he hopes that they can make it to €10,000 now.

He said that unfortunately many people's lives have been touched by suicide and that the minute's silence held before the walk, in memory of loved ones was very moving and emotional.

Eamonn added that while the event nationally saw 80,000 people taking part in the walks, it is also important to spread the message about the help that is available, with the nearest Pieta House being in Bishopstown in Cork.

The committee of just five people have to be commended for organising such a successful event, while it couldn't have been facilitated without the cooperation from Davis College, those who stewarded the event and everyone who helped out in any way.

John Roche told The Avondhu that the walk itself was a phenomenal experience and he was delighted with the strong presence from Doneraile and surrounding areas.

He thanked everyone who supported them so far and the Mallow branch for allowing them to do such a novel fundraiser through the '60 Club'.

"We're thrilled to have raised €9,500, but we would love to get to €10,000, so if anyone has sponsorship cards to return or wants to donate, they can call into Roche's Londis in Doneraile or call 022 24233," he said, adding that people have been very generous.

John added that they would like to keep the club alive and raise money through the '60 Club' for Pieta House next year, as it was a great way to raise money for a worthy charity, while also bringing people from the community closer together through a powerful and meaningful event, such as the Darkness Into Light walk.

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