DebRA is the national charity working on behalf of individuals and families affected by epidermolysis bullosa (EB), and provides an expert team of nurses and social care staff to work directly with families affected by the devastating skin condition.

The conference provided an opportunity for families, medical representatives and all those whose lives are affected by EB to share their knowledge of the rare and extremely painful genetic condition, which causes skin and internal body linings to blister at the slightest knock or rub, causing painful, open wounds.

The conference featured several workshops including Living with epidermolysis bullosa simplex (EBS), and individual sessions were provided with members of the DebRA healthcare team.

Key speakers at the event included Dr Jemma Mellerio, consultant dermatologist at Great Ormond Street Hospital and Dr Clare Robinson, DebRA Europe research manager, who spoke about clinical research and trials currently taking place.

As a leading supplier of wound, continence and stoma care medical appliances, Coloplast works with wound care specialists to develop innovative wound dressings – some of which are of great benefit to EB sufferers.

Territory manager at Coloplast’s wound and skincare division Lucy Meddings, who was at the event, said: “I spoke to many EB sufferers and it was fantastic to hear first-hand how a Coloplast product had improved their quality of life.

“It was great to hear so many moving stories that day and learn about the illness in more depth.”

Director of charitable activities at DebRA John Dart said: “We thank Coloplast for funding the 2008 DebRA annual conference and annual meeting which saw individuals, families, medical representatives, researchers, fund-raisers and supporters all come together and learn what is happening in EB research and hear the latest news on the management of EB.

“The conference is an integral part of our annual programme, providing the chance for people affected by EB to meet and share experiences.”