On Saturday, May 16, the slopes of South Leitrim’s most iconic hills were transformed into a sea of solidarity as hundreds of participants took part in the annual North West STOP-Suicide Prevention North West STOP Charity Walk up Sí Bheag Sí Mhór.
The event, organized to raise vital funds and awareness for mental health services, saw locals and visitors alike gather to support the life-saving work of North West STOP.
Hundreds of participants took part in the annual North West STOP-Suicide Prevention North West STOP Charity Walk up Sí Bheag Sí Mhór. Photo: David Knight
North West STOP provides free, confidential counselling services across the northwest region, including Leitrim, Sligo, Donegal, Cavan and Longford.
With no government core funding, community events like the Sí Bheag Sí Mhór walk are the lifeline that keeps these services accessible to those in crisis.
Hundreds of participants took part in the annual North West STOP-Suicide Prevention North West STOP Charity Walk up Sí Bheag Sí Mhór. Photo: David Knight
“The turnout today is a powerful reminder that no one has to walk their path alone,” said a spokesperson for North West STOP.
“Every step taken on this hill today translates directly into counselling hours for someone in our community who needs it most.”
A helping hand… walkers make thier way to the top of Sí Bheag Sí Mhór. Photo: David Knight
Participants followed the scenic trail up the historic “Small Fairy Hill” and “Big Fairy Hill,” enjoying panoramic views of the Leitrim landscape.
The day was defined by a spirit of hope and remembrance, with many walking in memory of loved ones or to celebrate their own journeys toward mental wellness.
Local volunteers provided refreshments and support throughout the morning, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all fitness levels while local musicians entertained the crowd at the top and one of the highlights was the playing of “Sí Bheag, Sí Mhór” composed by Turlough O’Carolan.
A group of participants during the sunrise walk. Photo: David Knight
The spokesperson continued, “Thanks to Adeline in the Leitrim Blueway Lodge for helping organise the event and feeding the walkers afterwards and to the bus drivers and everyone who helped out.
“The proceeds from this year’s walk will be used to reduce wait times to ensure that individuals seeking help can be matched with a counsellor within days and fund community workshops and educational programs to de-stigmatize mental health challenges.
“The fund will also keep the 24/7 helpline and counselling sessions free of charge for all users.”
Walkers on the way down the hill. Photo: David Knight
Founded in 2004, North West STOP is a volunteer-led organization dedicated to preventing suicide by providing community-based psychotherapy and counselling.
They operate on the belief that “talking is the first step to healing” and offer a professional, non-judgmental environment for individuals of all ages.
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