Graeme Souness Completes 21-Mile Swim Across English Channel to Raise £1 Million for Charity
Former Liverpool legend and football pundit, Graeme Souness, has completed a mammoth swim across the English Channel to raise £1 million for charity. The challenge was taken on after meeting Isla Grist, a 14-year-old from Inverness who suffers from the rare skin disease Epidermolysis bullosa (EB). The condition is commonly described as ‘butterfly skin’, which leaves Isla wrapped from head to toe in bandages that are changed three times a week in a procedure that is extremely painful to her.
Souness has previously described EB as “the cruellest disease out there”. Speaking to the BBC, he said: “For someone so young to be so brave… and Isla’s aware of the impact this has on her mum and dad and she helps them. This is a very special young lady you’re in the company of, she really is, and I am… she gets me in tears every time I’m in her company.”
The challenge was set out to raise £1.1 million for Debra UK, a charity that raises money for those with the condition. Souness joined Isla’s father and four other team members to complete the 21-mile swim, which they managed to do in an impressive 12 hours and 17 minutes.
A Huge Thank You to Graeme and the Team
Taking to Twitter, Debra UK wrote: “21 miles, completed it! A huge thank you to Graeme, Andy, Sean, Steph, Rob and Andy M for taking on this challenge to help #StopThePain for people living with EB.” The charity also posted a video of Souness and the team completing the swim, with Souness looking delighted with the achievement.
Souness has been vocal about his admiration for Isla and her bravery in the face of such a debilitating condition. He has described her as an “inspiration” to him and has been determined to do all he can to help raise awareness and funds for those affected by EB.
The Importance of Raising Awareness for EB
Epidermolysis bullosa is a rare genetic condition that affects around 5,000 people in the UK. It causes the skin to blister and tear at the slightest touch, leading to painful open wounds and infections. There is currently no cure for the condition, and treatment involves managing symptoms and preventing complications.
Raising awareness of EB is crucial in helping to fund research into finding a cure for the condition. It also helps to support those affected by EB and their families, providing them with access to specialist care and support services.
Souness’s swim across the English Channel has helped to raise vital funds for Debra UK, which will go towards supporting those affected by EB. The charity provides specialist nursing care, research funding, and support services for those living with the condition.
Conclusion
Graeme Souness’s mammoth swim across the English Channel is an incredible achievement and has helped to raise vital funds for Debra UK. The charity provides essential support services for those affected by Epidermolysis bullosa, a rare genetic condition that causes the skin to blister and tear at the slightest touch.
Souness’s determination to raise awareness of EB and support those affected by the condition is truly inspiring. His admiration for Isla Grist and her bravery in the face of such a debilitating condition is evident, and his efforts to help raise funds for Debra UK are a testament to his commitment to making a difference.
Raising awareness of rare conditions like EB is crucial in helping to fund research into finding a cure and providing support services for those affected. Souness’s swim across the English Channel is a fantastic example of how one person’s determination and commitment can make a significant difference in the lives of others.