Shining Light on EB: A Young Advocate’s Heartfelt Mission

At just 9 years old, Rayleigh is uplifting the EB Community with her heartfelt project, “Shining Light on EB.” Living with Epidermolysis Bullosa Simplex (EBS), she has embraced her platform as the current USA National Miss Yellowhammer to raise awareness and support for others affected by EB. 

The idea for "Shining Light on EB" emerged when Rayleigh and her mom, Racheal, brainstormed projects close to Rayleigh's heart.

“She of course chose EB —not only to bring awareness to EB, but to make her Dad & Papa, who also battle EB, proud,” Racheal explains. “Rayleigh is definitely not your typical pageant girl, but for her to be able to use this time to share her story means the world to her. This title has allowed her to share EB with others that weren’t aware EB even existed.” 

Rayleigh’s EB has made everyday activities such as playing on the playground, riding a bike, or even enjoying a mani-pedi with her mom challenging.

“However, through all of this she is a tough & confident little girl who doesn’t see any se backs,” Racheal adds. 

Inspired by her love for fluffy socks, Rayleigh’s goal was to collect fluffy socks to donate to those who are currently hospitalized due to EB and its complications. Most recently, the fluffy socks were donated to the EB Clinic at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Racheal shares, “Rayleigh hopes to one day be able to travel to Philadelphia to the EB Clinic at CHOP to personally gift not only fluffy socks, but other items to brighten the days of other children.” 

Thank you, Rayleigh, for your incredible efforts and for shining a light on EB with such compassion and dedication! Your project not only brings comfort to others but also raises awareness about this challenging condition.