Registration for the 2012 DEBRA Ireland Kerry Challenge is now open, and this years challenge promises to be the best to date. The renowned weekend will take place from the 15th-17th June. For the 9th consecutive year, over three days, teams and individuals of all ages will face the unique challenge of a 75km trek, amidst the beautiful but challenging terrain, that is the Kingdom of Ireland.
Individuals and teams will walk or run through ancient oak woods, lake valleys and along sandy beaches. The scenery isn’t the only thing that keeps people coming back year after year but the legendary and addictive fun atmosphere which makes this an unforgettable weekend. The routes will weave through hidden trails and pathways taking in breathtaking landscapes and will bring out the inner explorer in each and every participant. The base will be in the picturesque town of Dingle, with a closing ceremony on the beach for the final evening.
This weekend has so many fantastic elements to it but what makes this challenge so special is every person that takes part is making a difference to a child born with EB. Described by Doctor Rosemary Watson as one of the most debilitating conditions she has ever seen. These children incur daily challenges from the moment they awake. Imagine knowing that every morning you had to start the day with painful bandage changes, bursting new blisters that had appeared from simply turning over in your sleep, in total this agonising process can take up to 2/3 hours and that after its all done you cant even get a comforting hug from your loved ones as it will cause you more pain.
But you can make a difference by getting on your walking boots and talking part in the Kerry Challenge 2012. You may incur some blisters along the way but they will heal and when they do remember theirs will never go away.
We are hoping to make this years Kerry Challenge the biggest yet. If every person brought along one new person it would make a huge difference for us to reach our goal in funding an Outreach Nursing Service to all our families. This service would enable specially trained EB nurses to visit patients and families in their own home, ensuring that each patient gets the best possible medical care with their bandages and pain relief.
If you would like to receive more information or sign up a team call 01 412 6924, email: challenges@debraireland.org or log on to www.debraireland.org