Supporting The Bernie Nicholls Foundation

I am teaming up with The Bernie Nicholls Foundation to support DEBRA Canada and those suffering from Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB).

EB is a rare genetic disorder that affects the body's largest organ: the skin.

Individuals with EB lack critical proteins that bind the skin's two layers together. Without these proteins, the skin tears apart, blisters, and shears off, leading to severe pain, disfigurement, and internal and external wounds that may never heal. The average life expectancy for individuals with EB ranges from early infancy to just 30 years old. Today, there are no treatments or cures available for EB, but DEBRA Canada is dedicated to changing that, with belief that a cure is right around the corner.

I was first exposed to EB when I watched TSN's documentary "The Butterfly Child" which was based on the life of Jonathan Pitre. Unfortunately, Jonathan passed away back in 2018 at the age of 17, after a long battle with EB. When Jonathan passed away, the torch was passed on to his friend Deanna Molinaro, who also suffers from EB, to continue raising money and awareness to support the cause. I was lucky enough to meet Deanna in Las Vegas at The Bernie Nicholls Foundation event last year, and she is truly an inspiration. Deanna turns 31 this year and has already surpassed her life expectancy, but believes she is just getting started. She is committed to finding a cure for EB, but needs a lot of help.

I have set a fundraising goal of $10,000, and will be starting off with a personal donation of $2,000. I am also happy to share that my employer, Darktrace, will be matching all of the donations I am able to raise. Once we reach $5,000, Darktrace will donate $5,000 to complete the goal.

Thanks in advance for your generosity and support of The Bernie Nicholls Foundation and DEBRA Canada!