Dubliner to cycle 230km across the country in memory of his late brother
Marathon charity cycle in aid of those suffering from the painful skin condition EB
Kalebh Fynes, from Ballyboughal, is taking on a 230km cycle this May bank holiday weekend
10 of Kalebh's family and friends have signed up to do the cycle in memory of Aaron
A Dubliner will embark on a mammoth cycle across the country this May bank holiday in memory of his brother, who passed away from a rare skin condition.
Kalebh Fynes (29) will set off from Portmarnock on May 3 and cycle 230km to Salthill in Galway in memory of his brother Aaron, who was born with epidermolysis bullosa (EB), also known as butterfly skin.
Aaron was just 16 when he died from the genetic skin condition, which is caused by the absence of proteins that bind the skin layers together and can cause blisters at the slightest touch.
The funds raised will go to a charity called Debra, the national charity supporting those with EB in Ireland.
“At the moment, ten of us have signed up to do it, but all are welcome to join, whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just up for the challenge,” Kalebh said.
Kalebh, from Ballyboughal, was just six years old when Aaron died in 2001, and this will be his second challenge in memory of his brother, as he climbed Kilimanjaro last year for the same cause.
10 of Kalebh's family and friends have signed up to do the cycle in memory of Aaron
“I missed out on getting to know Aaron on a mature level, but I feel now, through Debra and events such as this, that I can connect with him,” he said.
“I still look up to him, and he still influences my life and the lives of others around me.”
He will set off on Friday, May 3, and cycle to Athlone, where they will camp for the night and cover the remaining distance to Galway on Saturday.
Kalebh’s dad, Val, will drive a “support van” alongside the team, transporting the bikes back to Dublin, while his other sibling, Isaiah, will follow in a car filled with refreshments and first aid.
Kalebh’s mother and extended family will be waiting for them at the finish line during their final stretch.
“Debra’s care and personnel, and the families affected by EB that need assistance, are spread thin,” said Kalebh.
“There are two reasons why I do these fundraisers: firstly, in memory of Aaron, and secondly, to raise awareness and funds for Debra.
“I also want to be able to reflect on every year when I’m old and grey, with a marker of something that I have done.
“It’s a way to remember each year, and what better reason than in memory of Aaron? I’d also like to thank everyone who supports me and helps me raise funds each year.”
