DRAWING 14

THE TWINS
This sketch is of 2 teenagers I know who are twins. They don't look too happy here and there is a reason. They have a severe skin condition called Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB). I mentioned EB in Drawing 4. People with EB are often called butterflies because their skin is as delicate as the wings of a butterfly. The skin blisters and tears very easily and these girls are covered in bandages in order to protect the wounds. The pain is excruciating and never goes away. The twins try to live life just like any other teenage girls and do a great job at overcoming the obstacles EB presents them. Unfortunately they often have to miss school and activities with their friends. Often overlooked is the sadness people with EB face because of the things they miss out on. Things that most people take for granted in life are things these girls strive for. They inspire their friends and family and even people who know who they are through online social media through their love of life and positive attitudes. When things are really bad they shrug their shoulders and say, "that's just our life with EB", then go on living their life as close as they can to healthy teens. Yet, still there are many lonely and frustrating days with no smiles.
Please visit EB Survivors and learn more about this incurable, genetic, non-contagious disorder. Then, if you ever meet someone with EB you will be able to smile and tell them you know about it. It will make their day and put a smile on their face. You never know, you just might become close friends too.