Debra CEO Jimmy Fearon has expressed deep gratitude for the overwhelming support generated by Colin Farrell and Emma Fogarty's participation in the Dublin City Marathon.
Their campaign raised €774,000 for Debra, which supports those with Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), a rare and painful skin condition often called "Butterfly Skin.
Fogarty, the longest-surviving person in Ireland with EB, joined Farrell for the final stretch of the marathon, with the actor pushing her wheelchair for the last four kilometres. Each kilometre represented a decade of Fogarty's life with the condition.
"The marathon generated unbelievable publicity for us as a small organisation," he said, adding that EB is often described as "the worst condition you’ve never heard of."
The funds raised have significantly increased public awareness of EB, with Fearon anticipating a continued rise in donations as more people consider supporting Debra.
Watch: Colin Farrell praises "incredible support" at Dublin CIty Marathon
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Fearon also commended the Dublin City Marathon team, the Gardaí, and the public for their encouragement. "It was a magical, truly special day," he shared, noting how moved Fogarty was by the support.
With the funds raised, Debra Ireland plans to expand family support services, including home visits, phone support, respite grants, counselling, and bereavement services. EB requires extensive care, including daily or bi-daily bandaging, which places a substantial strain on families.
Fearon stressed the need for secure, ring-fenced funding to guarantee home nursing care for those with severe EB throughout their lives.
"Currently, families are on thin ice," he explained. "We want a clear pathway and funding commitment, especially as patients age, to ensure consistent care.
If you would like to find out more or to donate to Debra, please see: Debra.ie
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