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DonateWith help from supporters like you, Debra of America continues to provide programs and services to people with Epidermolysis Bullosa and their families, and to support EB research.Thank You. |
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The mounting cost of bandages is most often not covered by an EB family's health insurance. |  |
89.4¢ of every dollar donated goes directly to EB patients, families, and research. |
About DebRA
The Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa Research Association of America (DebRA), is the only national non-profit dedicated to funding research and providing services and programs for those with
Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) — The Worst Disease You've Never Heard Of.™
DebRA is dedicated to finding a cure for EB, which affects 1 out of every 20,000 live births in the United States. EB is a genetically based disease characterized by chronic, painful blistering. The skin and mucous membranes are so fragile that the slightest touch can cause severe blistering inside and outside the body.
Present at birth, EB affects men and women of all races and ethnic groups and sometimes, when there is no family history, it occurs as the result of a spontaneous genetic mutation. Today, there is no cure or treatment for EB, except daily wound care and bandaging. Genetic research is making progress towards treatments and a cure.
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of DebRA of America is to improve the quality of life for all people living with EB, their families, and caregivers through programs and services while funding research to find a cure and treatments for Epidermolysis Bullosa.
HISTORY
DebRA of America was founded in 1980 by, Arlene Pessar, whose son was born with Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB). Frustrated with the lack of available medical information on the disease, Arlene wrote countless letters to nursing journals seeking information about EB. The young organization sought to fill the large gaps in knowledge about the cause, diagnosis, treatment and a cure for the disease. After writing the first informational materials on EB, the organization identified regional representatives to promote awareness and disseminate this information. Initial television, radio and newspaper publicity drew attention to the rare disease. In the inaugural year, the first DebRA newsletter was published and mailed to 100 EB families. Today, DebRA Currents is mailed to approximately 13,000 families, health professionals, corporations, and public officials.
Throughout its 30 years, DebRA has remained committed to funding research toward a cure, while responding to the increased need to provide direct services to patients and their families.
The DebRA team consists of a dedicated Staff, Board of Trustees and Scientific Advisory Board.
Any contribution, large or small, helps
EB patients and families and makes
continued research possible.
What is EB? helps teachers and students
understand the issues facing children with
dystrophic EB in the classroom.
of every dollar donated goes to EB
patients, families, and research.
