Ismail is 11 years old. Like many boys his age, he loves computer games. What sets him apart from other boys is that Ismail has a rare condition called epidermolysis bullosa (EB). Due to a genetic defect, he doesn't produce the proteins that hold the layers of skin together. As a result, any careless touch can cause injury. Because of their increased skin fragility, people like Ismail are called "butterfly children."
With this form of EB, the disease affects not only the skin but also the mucous membranes, especially in the mouth and esophagus. Ismail has difficulty eating normally. At the same time, his body constantly loses water, proteins, and iron through damaged skin. These losses cannot be replenished with a regular diet. As a result, protein-energy malnutrition develops, and physical development is slowed.
Help here is two links in a single chain: special atraumatic dressings and therapeutic nutrition with increased protein and calories. The dressings protect the skin, reduce the number of wounds, and decrease protein and fluid loss. The therapeutic nutrition helps compensate for deficiencies, supports the immune system, and provides the body with resources for growth and healing. One cannot work without the other.
The Butterfly Children Foundation is launching a fundraiser for dressings and care products, as well as therapeutic nutrition, for Ismail, so that his illness will have less of a determining effect on his future life.
Let's work together to help Ismail reach this important milestone.
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