Climb Out of the Darkness, the world’s largest event dedicated to raising awareness of pregnancy and postpartum mental health disorders, is set to host its first walk in Homewood on Sunday, Oct. 8, at 10 a.m. at Izaak Walton Preserve.
Organized by Homewood resident Meg Palka, the event aims to shed light on perinatal mental health disorders, an often overlooked aspect of maternal well-being. Palka emphasized that Climb Out of the Darkness serves as Postpartum Support International’s (PSI) major fundraiser, with similar climbs occurring worldwide. These events are run by volunteers deeply committed to supporting families dealing with perinatal challenges.
The primary goal of this climb is to unite the community in raising awareness and resources for individuals facing perinatal and postpartum mood disorders.
The event is open to all and free to participants. Those interested also can contribute by fundraising, with proceeds directed towards resources, including online support groups for individuals coping with mood disorders like postpartum depression or anxiety.
Palka expressed her enthusiasm for the event’s potential to connect families with local H-F businesses and services designed to support postpartum and perinatal women and their families. She stressed the importance of letting new parents know about these resources.
“Climb Out of the Darkness signifies climbing out of the deep, dark hole and seeing the light again. I want other parents to know that they are not alone. Just by showing up and being there, they will be supported no matter what. I am there to be a support, a listening ear, and to help someone else so that they continue to share their stories and pass that hope on to other families,” she said.
Attendees can look forward to balloon animals, a kundalini yoga class led by Serendipity Yoga, and giveaways and raffles during the event.
The regional Climb Out of the Darkness event in Homewood on Oct. 8 invites everyone to join in, irrespective of their personal experiences with perinatal mental health disorders. To register and learn more about the event, visit classy.org/team/508207.