These past few days have given us time to truly take in the incredible impact of this year’s Darkness Into Light. The kindness and support shown were unforgettable.
Before we shared our gratitude, we waited for Sean @SRImedia the one who captures the raw, true emotion of the Darkness Into Light Walk better than words ever could so thank you Sean! This video shows the impact that every single one of you who had who registered, donated, fundraised, and to our amazing local businesses who support us without hesitation – you are all the reason this event is such a success.
We would like to thank each of the local businesses individually as it would not have been possible without you!
A heartfelt thank you to the incredible Encore Contemporary Choir for the powerful presence you bring to Darkness Into Light each year. Your voices set the tone at the start and leave a lasting impression at the end, a truly memorable part of the journey.
And to Jacqueline @the5stringfiddler – thank you for sharing your incredible music and talent as our walkers passed by the council offices. Your performance added such a beautiful and moving atmosphere to the morning.
A big thank you to Carol @hyvecoffee for so kindly allowing us to use the coffee van and staying throughout Darkness Into Light to keep the hot water flowing! We’re truly grateful to both you and Stephen Mulbery for giving your time and being there to support us.
Thank you to Joe and the team at Unit 7 Audio Visual for your continued support of HURT.
To Paul Gillespie (Pepsi) and his assistance JJ from North-West Carnival Initiative – thank you for lighting up the walk so beautifully this year. The speakers, the setup, the atmosphere was amazing! You’re always there when we need you, you never let us down.
A massive thanks to @thesandwichco_ – Paul, Theresa and the team – for stepping in with flasks, cups, hot water boilers, and most importantly, your words: “What do you need? We’ll help.” Your support means the world.
To Culmore Stores– what incredible staff. Thank you Pat, Carla and Lucia who provided loads of tray bakes and milk to keep us going throughout the night and your donations. We are so grateful!
Lynch’s Eurospar Trench Road your support never wavers. Thank you for the buns and for always standing by us. We truly appreciate it.
A special shoutout to Ellen @Cedel Communications Ltd – your behind-the-scenes radios work to ensure everything runs seamlessly. You’re always the first to reach out and donate your services – thank you.
To Jim McCafferty Photography – Jim, thank you for your early start and for always capturing the essence of Darkness Into Light so beautifully.
To Tesco Quayside Shopping Centre, Derry and @Lisnagelvin – Fionnuala and Sarah Lee, your constant support means so much. Whatever the event, you’re always ready to help – thank you.
To Sean and the team at Sainsbury’s Strand Road – We truly appreciate everything you donate.
Thank you Seasonharvest for your generous donations of fresh fruit!
PureGym – Calvin, thank you for providing access to toilets, this is so helpful for us!
To Pulse Event Medical Services and Foyle Search and Rescue, your presence gives us comfort. You do an amazing job every single time. Thank you for keeping everyone safe.
And to our incredible HURT staff, board members, families, volunteers and fundraisers – we are truly blessed. Your dedication, heart, and teamwork are the reason this event is possible. We can’t thank you enough.
This year, we were delighted to honour Edelle Mcaleer – a true full-circle moment. One of the first to help bring Darkness Into Light to life from the very beginning, your dedication has never gone unnoticed. And to your daughter Saorla, who continues to show up with the same spirit and support – thank you both!
And to Sadie, thank you for your beautiful speech. The work you do for our community is truly unmatched. You are, without a doubt, an inspiration to us all.
Finally, to the people of our City, no matter what challenges we face, we stand tall together. We show up, time and time again. Until next year, we carry the memory of all our loved ones with us, always. If you ever need support, please reach out, just look at how many people are here for you.
Thank you, everyone, for making Darkness Into Light 2025 so special.
With gratitude,
Leanne & Rebecca 
