County Derry man completes one million steps challenge for national charity DEBRA

Gareth Cairns from Eglinton has completed his challenge to walk one million steps throughout the month of September.
Speaking about the fundraiser, which has raised more than £4,000 to date, Gareth said: “It's been an incredible month and I’ve enjoyed every single day. The feeling of taking that millionth step and completing the challenge was amazing.

“Reaching the finish line within the month was such a relief, as so many people donated, and I didn’t want to let anyone down.
“The support and encouragement I received kept me going every step of the way, and I couldn’t be more grateful.”

Speaking on why he decided to take part in the challenge Gareth said: “Unfortunately, it is a rather uninspiring story. It was the middle of July, I was sitting at home and the thought of walking 1 million steps just came to my head and I thought, “oh that would be tough, that would be tougher than running a marathon” (which I did in 2019).

“I recall a phone call with my older brother Mark soon after. I explained the challenge and that it would be a good opportunity to raise money for charity. I vividly recall him asking what charity, to which I replied “I have no idea. Maybe something related to dogs. Everyone likes dogs.” Mark immediately disregarded this idea and suggested raising money for Isla Grist: debra.org.uk/islas-story

“I was not familiar with Isla Grist, but after some online research, I knew I wanted to raise money for DEBRA, make people aware of Isla’s condition and to try to help end Isla’s suffering and others affected by EB.”

DEBRA is a national charity and support organisation dedicated to helping individuals living with Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), a rare and incredibly painful genetic skin condition also known as "Butterfly Skin." EB causes the skin to be so fragile that it can blister or tear with even the lightest touch. With your support, we can work towards finding effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure for EB.

Gareth did the bulk of the walking very close to his home; in and around Eglinton village (Upperlane Road).
Gareth’s fundraising page is still open if you wish to donate to Gareth’s campaign you can do so via donate.giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/stepping-up-for-isla-grist-a-million-steps-in-september