Jerseys worn inside out as Bohs back campaign for incurable skin condition

Bohemians footballers have teamed up with a brave teenager who battles an incurable skin condition to continue playing the sport she loves.

The Dublin club’s senior women’s squad is supporting national charity Debra’s Inside Out initiative, which asks the public to wear an item of clothing inside out on October 22.

The drive is aimed at raising awareness and crucial funds for families dealing with extremely painful epidermolysis bullosa (EB).

The campaign is led by 14-year-old goalkeeper Sophia Dawson, who lives with EB and whose skin blisters and tears – particularly when playing contact sport.

Her bravery comes at a cost – after dancing competitions or football training, the burning pain in her feet is so severe that she often needs to be carried to bed.

The schoolgirl, who plays for Donacarney Celtic FC in Meath, is being supported by Bohs’ women’s first team, including one of her heroes – fellow keeper and captain, Rachael Kelly.

On a visit to the club, the players heard about Sophia’s routine: “I have to constantly take breaks and painkillers.

“I want to play during summer with my friends, but it’s horrible, I have a burning feeling in my feet, eventually it stings and I have to avoid walking for the next few days.”

Kelly said it is “amazing” the teenager has the resilience to play through the pain barrier.

“Even when we’re playing on astro, we can feel a burning in our feet, but you are a credit to yourself and your family for not letting it stop you,” she said.

“It’s unbelievable what you’ve done, especially being a goalkeeper because mentally you have to stay switched on, and you’re also thinking of yourself physically. You’re an inspiration to so many.”

Amanda Nugent, a Gaelic football and soccer player, her son Ruaidhri Dwyer Nugent, and Layanna-Maria Aston, all of whom live with EB, are also at the forefront of the awareness drive.

Alejandra Livschitz, of Debra, said the Inside Out campaign exposes the painful nature of EB and the limitations it places on many living with it.

Even the seams of clothes can cause painful blisters, as any friction can damage their fragile skin – the reason clothes often need to be worn inside out.

“Sophia is an extraordinary young person who doesn’t let EB stop her,” she said.

“Her father, Mark, also lives with EB, and together with her mother Aisling and brother Alfie, the family endures the daily reality of planning, pain management, the emotional toll, and the constant balancing act between living fully and managing EB.”

Bohs said the club became involved because it admired the determination of Sophia and others in refusing to let EB dictate their lives.

Aibhinn Conway, head of community at Bohemians, said: “Something has happened which is completely outside of your control, but you don’t let it stop you playing football and doing the things that you love.”

Further information can be found at debra.ie/insideout.