The Connor Marsden Brighter Future Fund has been created in memory of a very strong and thoughtful young man.

Connor lived with a condition called Epidermolysis bullosa (EB).

Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a general term used to describe a group of rare inherited skin disorders that cause the skin to become very fragile.

Throughout Connor's life he visited a few hospitals. The one hospital where Connor spent most of his days of ongoing assessments, reviews and treatments was at Great Ormond Street Hospital. The dermatology department and staff, in particular Jackie Denyer, have been fantastic with both Connor and all family members.

No matter how much time Connor spent in a hospital setting, he always expressed a fear of needles. Connor talked about wanting to change this for other children, as it was something he didn't want others to feel. 

This fund is to raise money so we can donate it to the dermatology department to purchase items which can be utilised to distract children when having blood taken or having a cannula inserted.

Another item that would be great to obtain for the dermatology department would be a specific piece of equipment which helps to identify veins in children with skin conditions. 

As you will be aware, for some adults without a skin condition, it can be distressing to have a blood test. For children with EB it can be extremely difficult to find a vein due to the fragility of the skin. If this process could be made easier, this in turn would make the process of having a blood test less stressful and painful. 

I am running in the Edinburgh marathon in May and I am going to complete the C2C bike ride, 140 miles in early July.I know these challenges are going to be hard but to know I will be helping other children, like Connor wished for, will make it all worthwhile.

Any donations would be fantastic, every penny does help and will be gratefully received.

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