October 28th 2024.
Colin Farrell, the talented 48-year-old actor, recently took a break from his busy schedule to do something truly inspiring – he completed the Dublin Marathon while pushing his dear friend Emma Fogarty in a wheelchair. Emma, who lives with a rare skin condition called epidermolysis bullosa, is Ireland's oldest surviving person with the condition. She has been bravely living with this incurable genetic condition her entire life, and Colin wanted to show his support and raise awareness by running the marathon with her.
Emma, who turned 40 in June, never thought she would reach this milestone due to the severity of her condition. She was born with no skin on her left foot and right arm and even the slightest touch can cause painful blisters. But despite these challenges, she is a symbol of courage and determination. Colin, who has known Emma for many years, was truly inspired by her strength and wanted to honor her by participating in the marathon together.
As they approached the final 4 kilometers of the 26-mile race, the crowd roared with support for the pair. Colin, who is currently starring in the HBO miniseries "The Penguin," was overwhelmed with emotion as he met up with Emma to complete the last stage of the race. He told PA, "I have known Emma for many years and she epitomises bravery, she is what courage and pure determination are all about."
Together, they crossed the finish line just before 1 pm local time, with Colin finishing the course in 4:06.45. But for him, the physical challenge of the marathon was nothing compared to the daily pain that Emma endures with her condition. He spoke of his admiration for her and the honor he felt in completing the final stretch of the race with her, with each kilometer representing a decade of her life.
Emma, in turn, expressed her gratitude towards Colin, calling him the most supportive, generous, and loyal friend she could ask for. She said, "He has always shown his compassion and empathy for people living with EB and is a true champion in my eyes." She also praised his dedication to the marathon, stating that once he committed to it, there was no going back – he is a man of his word.
Epidermolysis bullosa is a rare condition in which the essential proteins that bind the skin's layers together are missing. This means that even the smallest amount of friction or movement can cause the skin to break, tear, or blister. Emma, who is an ambassador for DEBRA, has to wear layers of bandages over 80% of her body to prevent infection from wounds. But despite these challenges, she remains positive and determined to raise awareness and funds for the charity.
Colin and Emma initially set out to raise €400,000 for DEBRA, but their efforts have now surpassed that goal. They are currently aiming for a million euros and have already raised three-quarters of the way there, according to the charity's website. This incredible feat has not gone unnoticed, and earlier this year, Colin launched the Colin Farrell Foundation to support families with adult children living with intellectual disabilities. This cause is close to Colin's heart as his own son, James, was born with Angelman Syndrome, a rare neurogenetic disorder.
Colin and Emma's friendship and determination have shown that anything is possible with courage and support. They have inspired many with their selfless act of completing the Dublin Marathon together, and their efforts will continue to make a positive impact in the lives of those living with EB.
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