Tractor ride for butterfly children: a heart project in Carinthia!

Tractor ride for butterfly children: a heart project in Carinthia!

Arnoldstein, Österreich - Today, on July 11, 2025, Robert Merlin started a special tractor ride on the occasion of his 70th birthday to draw attention to the rare disease epidermolysis bullosa (eb). From the municipality of Seltchach, his route led to various stations, including the Franz-Josefs-Höhe, with the aim of collecting donations for the Debra Austria association. This organization celebrates its 30th anniversary this year and is committed to the needs of people with EB.

At the official farewell at the municipal square in Arnoldstein, Mayor Reinhold Antolitsch Merlin wished. The tractor, which acted as an eye -catcher, was labeled with information about epidermolysis bullosa. This rare disease affects around 500 people in Austria and leads to extremely sensitive skin, which is easily bubble -forming and vulnerable. It is a permanent illness that often requires intensive medical care and can affect many areas of life of those affected.

destination and route of the heart ride

Merlin plans to draw attention to the “butterfly children” while driving through the region, as those affected are often mentioned. The first stop on the trip was Mörtschach, followed by a driveway to the Franz-Josefs-Höhe. Other stops included the Gasserplatz in Hermagor and the town hall in Kötschach-Mauthen. The overnight stay took place in Mörtschach in the Mölltal before the trip continued on July 12th to the Emperor Franz Josef's Höhe.

"I hope for many supporters for a better future of the children affected," said Merlin during the opening ceremony. The tractor ride is not only a heart project, but also a way to collect donations. Photos and donations are accepted during the entire "heart trip". Interested parties can deposit to the Debra Austria donation account, whereby the password should be used "Großglockner".

The challenges of epidermolysis bulllosa

The Epidermolysis bulllosa disease brings numerous challenges for those affected. The most common problems include pain, slow wound healing, infection tendencies and social isolation. Treatment not only requires medical interventions, but also comprehensive support from specialists such as dermatologists and wound specialists. The emotional and financial burdens that go hand in hand with the disease are also considerable.

With his tractor ride, Robert Merlin would like to raise awareness of the public and draw attention to the urgently needed support for people with epidermolysis bullosa. By active participation in such actions, we can all help to raise awareness of this serious illness and to help the families concerned. Merlin's commitment shows how important it is to show solidarity and to work for the needs of people with this rare illness.

For more information about epidermolysis bullosa and their support, please visit the page of epidermolysis bulllosa . The money collected will flow directly into the projects of debra Austria that focus on improving the quality of life of the affected children.