Irish actor Colin Farrell expressed his gratitude to the public for their generous support of his charity marathon run for his friend, Emma Fogarty, who is battling the rare skin condition epidermolysis bullosa (EB). The pair appeared on RTÉ’s Late Late Show, where donations poured in, totaling around £400,000. Emma, Ireland’s longest-surviving person with EB, joined Colin to raise awareness for the condition by participating in the Irish Life Dublin Marathon. Emma, who recently celebrated her 40th birthday, faces daily challenges due to the severe form of EB she lives with. This condition, also known as Butterfly Skin, causes her excruciating pain from even the slightest touch. Colin and Emma’s “Run to 40” campaign has now raised over €500,000, with a significant portion coming from their appearance on the Late Late Show.
The funds raised will go towards supporting the charity Debra, which assists 300 individuals in Ireland living with EB. Colin praised Emma for her strength and resilience, highlighting her as a true inspiration. Emma emphasized the physical challenge of the 4km run, explaining how even small obstacles on the road can cause her immense discomfort. Debra’s chief executive, Jimmy Fearon, expressed his astonishment and excitement at the overwhelming response from the public, stating that the funds raised will make a significant impact on families affected by EB.
The success of the fundraising initiative has been a testament to the generosity and compassion of the community, with donations continuing to pour in. To show your support for this cause, visit debra.ie/runto40 or contact (00353) 01 902 3938. The impact of Colin and Emma’s efforts extends beyond the funds raised; they are raising awareness and support for individuals living with rare conditions like EB. Their dedication and determination serve as an inspiration to us all, demonstrating the power of compassion and unity in making a difference in the lives of others.
In a world where challenges and obstacles can often feel overwhelming, stories like Colin and Emma’s remind us of the strength and resilience of the human spirit. By coming together and supporting one another, we can create positive change and make a real difference in the lives of those in need. The journey towards a more compassionate and inclusive society begins with acts of kindness and generosity, no matter how big or small. As we follow Colin and Emma’s “Run to 40” campaign, let us be inspired to lend a helping hand to those facing adversity, and together, we can create a brighter and more hopeful future for all.
