Johnny Sexton helps raise €6k for EB charity Debra

Johnny Sexton and Claudia Scanlon enjoyed a reunion at an event where the rugby legend lined out to help raise money for a national charity.

The pair met at the Clayton Hotel in Ballsbridge, where the Ireland men’s coach entertained guests at a sold-out dinner and live interview session on Thursday night, (15th) organised by The Sporting Club Ireland.

It was followed by a live auction, the proceeds of which went to Debra, the national charity supporting Claudia, 22, and around 300 others in Ireland living with extremely painful genetic skin condition epidermolysis bullosa (EB).

She and the former Ireland international and Lions star have been friends for several years, meeting through his ambassadorial role with Debra.

“It was great to meet up with Johnny again; he has been a wonderful friend and support to me personally and to the entire Debra community,” said Dublin make-up artist Claudia, who also spoke at the event about her battle with EB.

“Events like these help to generate awareness about the condition, and crucial funds to help find a cure.”

Sexton said he was ‘honoured’ to share the stage with her.

“It is only when you meet someone like Claudia, you realise what real adversity looks like; her courage and determination know no bounds,” he said.

Around €6,000 was raised for Debra through the auction and donations via a QR code.