The Delta Tau Delta Fraternity is now raising money and public awareness to aide two year-old Tripp Roth and his family in their time of need.

Roth, from Ponchatoula, La., was born with a rare genetic skin disorder known as Junctional Epidermolysis Bullosa, commonly known as EB, an extremely rare and painful condition.

 EB affects less than one in a million people in the US. The disorder negatively affects the production of the protein collagen, which makes the skin strong and flexible. As a result, the body’s tissues, such as skin, are left extremely fragile and susceptible to abrasions and painful blisters from the slightest friction or minor trauma. Those, like Tripp, who suffer from this disease rarely live to 2-years-old. Tripp is 28-months-old.

Courtney Roth updates the status of her son’s condition on a regular basis on her blog “‘EB’ing a Mommy.” According to the blog, trip has undergone several eye surgeries to correct continuous corneal abrasions. As a result of the surgeries, Tripp is now blind.

There is no known cure, and the experimental treatments are both painful and expensive for Tripp and his family. The costliness of these treatments is what prompted Delta Tau Delta Fraternity to raise money for Tripp.

“Delta Tau Delta has been performing ‘Delts-do-a-Thousand’ for years. …This is the second time we have chosen to raise money for Tripp,” said Delta Tau Delta Fraternity President Brandon Colletti. “His cause is one that until recently was relatively unknown, and it is very important to make people aware the disease.  This fundraiser has close ties to Southeastern and the Hammond community.”

Tripp has undergone several surgeries and procedures in his short life, but has continued to surpass his doctors’ and his family’s expectations. Delta Tau Delta is asking that you help them by participating in their annual ‘Delts-do-a-Thousand’ fundraiser.

Delta Tau Delta is conducting a fundraiser in the Union on Sept. 26-28 by shaking cans and riding an exercise bike for spare change in support of Tripp Roth and his family.

Delta Tau Delta Community Service Chairman Hunter Carter is hopeful for this fundraiser, and its outcome.

“I hope that this fundraiser will raise more awareness about Tripp so more people can help,” said Carter.

Colletti, in a request for help from students, said, “We are not asking you to donate everything you have… every little bit matters and can make a difference.  It is going to a great cause, please help someone receive a little relief during a difficult time.”

For more information about EB or for questions and updates concerning Tripp and his condition go to randycourtneytripproth.blogspot.com. For information on the Delta Tau Delta Fraternity and their continued support and dedication to Tripp Roth or any future efforts concerning Tripp contact Fraternity President Brandon Colletti at [email protected].