Midlands Woman Hands Over €1m To Rare Disease Charity

Thursday, 11 September 2025 17:34

Abbeyleix's Emma Forgarty who has the rare skin condition presented the money from her Dublin Marathon Fundraiser.

Emma Fogarty has handed over €1million to EB charity Debra – almost a year after her brave Dublin Marathon fundraiser with Hollywood star Colin Farrell.

The Abbeyleix woman, the longest living person in Ireland battling the most severe form of skin condition epidermolysis bullosa, said it felt like crossing the finishing line again as she made the remarkable cheque presentation.

Debra initially hoped to raise €400,000 during 'Emma’s Run to 40', marking her 40^th birthday last summer.

But that target ballooned after her and Farrell’s Late Late Show appearance ahead of last October’s race.

Further donations saw it hit the €1million mark, funds which will be used to fuel crucial research into the incurable condition.

Emma battles the most debilitating form of EB – the slightest touch causing extremely painful blisters which require bandage changes several times a week.

She persuaded Farrell to take on the full 42km run – and push her in her wheelchair for the final 4km.

“All the credit goes to Emma on this one,” said the Banshees of Inisherin star.

“I’m thrilled but not really surprised that Irish people dug so deep to support my good friend and the charity which looks after those living with EB - and their families.

“But the fight doesn’t end here; as long as people are still living with the extreme pain of EB, there will be a need for public support.”

“Looking back a year on, it was such an amazing experience,” said Emma.

“The nature of EB means I knew that for those 4km, I would feel everything impact on my skin; every little bump on the road, every pebble and twist and turn, and I did.

“But because the money raised provides hope to others and funds research into this condition, I was prepared to endure that.”

Debra CEO, Jimmy Fearon, said at the cheque presentation in Killashee House Hotel & Spa in Kildare, that the €1million boost to the charity was ‘a tremendous testament’ to Emma and Colin.

“This incredible gesture was born out of their close friendship and the shared passion they have for EB and the need to one day find a cure,” he said.

For more information or to donate, visit: debra.ie.