Colin Farrell

Colin Farrell’s Marathon of Love for a Miracle Friend!

Hollywood heartthrob Colin Farrell takes on the Dublin Marathon to celebrate a special milestone for his amazing friend – you won't believe the incredible journey behind this!

Colin Farrell, the charismatic Irish actor known for his brooding performances in films like "In Bruges" and "The Lobster," is set to swap his acting shoes for running trainers in a heartwarming gesture to mark his close friend Emma Fogarty’s 40th birthday. The Dublin Marathon, which takes place on October 27th, will be a monumental event not only for Farrell but for Emma as well, who has bravely fought through numerous challenges in her life due to a rare skin condition called epidermolysis bullosa (EB). This condition, affectionately dubbed 'butterfly skin', makes the skin fragile, likened to the delicate wings of a butterfly, which perfectly encapsulates Emma's own resilience and strength.

The marathon run aims to raise a whopping €400,000 for Debra Ireland, a charity that supports those living with EB, providing care and advocacy for patients and families grappling with the debilitating effects of the condition. Colin's devotion to supporting Emma, who is Ireland's longest-surviving person battling the most extreme form of EB, highlights not just their friendship but also shines a light on the often-overlooked struggles that people living with chronic illnesses face every day. It’s truly a journey of friendship, resilience, and community support as they take on this grueling challenge together.

In a moving tribute, Farrell expressed that this marathon is a celebration of Emma's spirit and the incredible milestone of her milestone birthday, especially after doctors had warned about her survival in her early days. Running along with her through Dublin’s streets will not only be a display of camaraderie but also a reminder of how far Emma has come. It symbolizes hope and the celebration of life despite the odds being stacked against. It’s an inspiring reminder that life, much like running a marathon, is filled with hurdles, but having good friends makes the journey worthwhile!

As we cheer on Colin and Emma, let’s also take a moment to recognize the wonderful community that comes together for causes like this! Did you know that Ireland has one of the highest rates of rare diseases in Europe? Approximately 1 in 10 people in Ireland live with a rare disease, showcasing the importance of awareness and support for those affected. Additionally, every participant in this marathon represents not just their own personal triumphs but the collective strength of individuals like Emma, proving that with a little help from our friends, we can overcome almost anything. Join the celebration and inspire others with your support!