A 'Debra Ireland Butterly Walk' will take place this bank holiday weekend in Co Monaghan. The event will take place at 2pm in Drumhowan Centre on Monday the 28th of October, with refreshments, face painting, kids activities and much much more for all the family to enjoy. A group of ladies who play rounders for Drumhowan are also taking part in the 40k challenge for Debra Ireland. This is all in a bid to support group member Jacqueline O'Neill whose 4-year-old daughter Tess was recently diagnosed with this condition. Speaking to Northern Sound, proud mum Jacqueline said she has been "blown away" by the support they have received as a family. She said revealed that over €11,00o has been already raised so far, with further donations needed in order to give back to a charity which has helped the O'Neill family since Tess's diagnosis. "For the last three years, Debra Ireland have asked for less than €700,000 in the budget and they haven't received anything. They rely on public donations, they provide special equipment, nurses, days out for siblings, counselling and financial support yet they ask for very little in return. It's a fantastic organisation and this is all about raising awareness and funds," explained Jacqueline.
Nicola McElroy who is also taking part in this weekend's fundraising initiative added; "Drumhowan geraldines rounders team are taking part in the Run to 40 Challenge so that everyone with skin as fragile as a butterfly’s wing can access life-changing services and supports now and so Debra can invest in EB research that can transform lives. Especially thinking of our wee warrior Tess who we are very proud of."
There are approximately 1,000 people in Ireland affected by Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), an extremely painful and incurable skin condition. Of these, 300 live every day with skin that blisters and tears at the slightest touch, like a butterfly’s wing. Jacqueline O'Neill is calling on locals to take action with her and the community of Drumhowan and further afield in order to prove the power of the Butterfly Effect – that seemingly small acts can create monumental change for everyone affected by EB in Ireland.
