McKesson Patient Care Solutions Inc., a Pittsburgh-based subsidiary of McKesson Medical-Surgical Inc., is sponsoring a charitable 5K race event at Robert Morris University in support of epidermolysis bullosa (EB) patients and their families. The event will be hosted by the nonprofit and EB advocacy group Debra of America and will kick off National EB Awareness Week, October 25-31. This event is the first of its kind in Pittsburgh. Registration proceeds and any additional donations will go to Debra of America to benefit EB patients and families. McKesson Patient Care Solutions (MPCS), which has a history of support in the EB community, also made a $20,000 donation to Debra of America this summer as a sponsor at the nonprofit’s biennial conference in Dallas, Texas.
More than 25 local MPCS employees will volunteer at the event and participate by running or walking the 5k race. The event is expecting to draw more than 100 participants from the EB community as well as local university and fitness club communities.
Debra of America refers to EB as the “worst disease you’ve never heard of” because it is a rare genetic disorder characterized by the presence of extremely fragile skin and recurring blister formation caused by trauma or minor friction, like hugging. Today, there is no cure for EB, but genetic research is making progress toward additional treatment options and a cure.
For the past eight years, MPCS has raised or donated funds to support finding a cure and to help meet needs in the EB community. MPCS carries wound care supplies that EB patients need and supports EB patients with a dedicated Advocate team who help with ordering supplies, having them shipped to patients’ homes as well as educating them on insurance guidelines and assistance with managing claims.
17-year-old Hanna Blake from Ohio, who has EB and receives MPCS’ services, will be attending the Pittsburgh dash4debra event. “MPCS is awesome. They are the only place that I can get everything I need! They are so wonderful with EB families. They know everything and anything about any of the products, and they are so nice,” said Hanna.
For more information, visit mms.mckesson.com.
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