12 Days of Christmas for Debra Ireland

A reminder of what real strength looks like.

While I was completing my PhD, I was introduced to children and families living with Epidermolysis Bullosa in Crumlin. I have never forgotten them. EB is often called “the worst disease you’ve never heard of” because the skin is as fragile as a butterfly wing.

Daily the skin tears, which causes blistering pain, multiple dressing changes per day for all living with EB and an extraordinary level of resilience from families who navigate a reality most of us cannot fully comprehend.

Those families remain my reminder for what hard looks like. They inspire me more than they know.

This year, from December 2 to December 13, I am doing 12 Days of Christmas for Debra Ireland.

Every day, in the dark mornings or evenings, I will run 5 km and complete a 30-minute strength session. It is my small act for those who face difficulty not for twelve days, but every single day.

I am sharing this to raise awareness, to honour the families I met, and to bring visibility to the work Debra Ireland does for children and adults living with EB.

If you feel compelled to join me, share the message, or support Debra Ireland in any way, your impact may reach further than you think.

This season, may we move with purpose, compassion and perspective.

For the EB community. For their families. For the strength they show the world.