Thank you for visiting the fundraising page of the Harlequin Icthyosis Trust at Barts and the London Hospitals.Your support will make a significant difference to funding research and education on this condition.

Harlequin ichthyosis is the most severe and frequently lethal form of recessive congenital ichthyosis. The skin of babies born with this inherited condition forms thick hard diamond shaped plaques with deep fissures due to its inflexibility, which increases their susceptibility to infection. It may also cause the eyes, ears, mouth and other appendages to contract abnormally. This makes it difficult for them to feed. It is a rare condition that requires intensive care treatment. The survival rate of children born with this disease has improved over the years, but many will die within days of birth. Treatment will be required for their entire life. The impact of the condition on sufferers the Bowen sisters and the Betts sisters can be seen in the Channel 5 documentary 'The Girls With Too Much Skin'. 

Research led by Professor David Kelsell of Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry aims to develop treatment options; promote international research collaborations to strengthen investigations into this rare condition; make prenatal screening tests available; and disseminate clinical best practice.
For more information, please visit: www.bartsandthelondon.nhs.uk/charity/harlequin_ichthyosis_appeal.asp 

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Barts and The London Charity will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you. On behalf of all the children who will benefit, thank you once again for your support.