Along with 120 other participants, I will trek mountain paths and forest trails along the Dingle Peninsula in aid of Debra.
At Debra wprovide help and support the on average 300 people in Ireland with epidermolysis bullosa (EB) – a rare and incurable skin disease known as “Butterfly Skin”, as it causes the skin to break out in painful blisters at the slightest touch.
But unlike my fellow fundraisers, I will not be wearing shoes or socks during his challenge. Instead, I will walk 10,000 steps of the route barefoot over the course of the three-day challenge.
EB is a terrible disease which has a profound effect, not only on those diagnosed, but on their families and carers as well. People with EB live with constant pain as a result of blisters. There is no cure at present and in many cases, people cannot walk because of sores on their feet.
By not wearing any shoes or socks during the Kerry Challenge, I hope to walk in the footsteps of people living with the disease.
The money we raise will help Debra provide families living with EB with antibacterial silk socks, therapeutic cot sheets and pillowcases, in addition to books and feeling cards to help children with the condition process their emotions. It will also help us fund counselling sessions for adults with EB, play therapy for children, home visits, home adaptations and specialised EB training for nurses and medical staff. Public donations also help sponsor scientists who are carrying out vital research into finding a cure for the genetic disease.
Read more about Kerry Challenge 2023 - DEBRA Ireland