Film star to run marathon in fundraiser for rare skin condition
Oscar-nominated actor Colin Farrell has confirmed he is to run the Irish marathon to raise funds for his close friend Emma Fogarty.
Fogarty suffers from the painful dermatological condition epidermolysis bullosa (EB), which she has opened up about on social media. This is a rare skin disorder that causes blisters and necessitates intensive bandaging across the body to prevent infections, and it requires constant attention.
Fogarty is engaged in a constant struggle against the most aggressive form of the genetic disease (also known as recessive dystrophic EB), with most sufferers usually given a life expectancy of around 30-35 years. At 40 years old, she is the longest-surviving person with the condition, and plans to join Farrell in her wheelchair for the final stretch of the race.
Campaigners are hoping to increase awareness of the condition at the marathon and raise 400,000 euros for the charity DEBRA, which helps around 300 people across Ireland who live with EB. All funds raised by Emma’s Run To 40 on October 27 will go towards supporting pioneering research with the potential to transform the future for everyone with EB in Ireland.
The 26.2-mile marathon started in 1980 and traditionally takes place in Dublin on the last Sunday of October. The course is generally flat, starting in the city centre at Fitzwilliam Square and ending up at Merrion Square
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