Award-winning singer, songwriter and entrepreneur, Tara Shannon, released her latest single and music video Butterfly Child in North America. She wrote this song in dedication to the “Butterfly Child” Jonathan Pitre who suffers from Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), a painful skin condition which causes the skin to constantly blister and tear at the touch much like a butterfly wing. Together, the two, have joined forces in hopes to raise awareness and funds towards treatment for the devastating skin disease. The single is currently available on iTunes, with 100 per cent of proceeds going to Jonathan and DEBRA Canada.

The making of the video itself was a true labour of love with close to 200 people from their small town of Russell, Ontario also getting involved. Helping Jonathan achieve his goals is something Tara has been able to do thanks to the help of their loving army of supporters from their hometown, who never fail to come together to do whatever they can to help Jonathan’s dreams come true.

“Jonathan and I live a few doors down from one another in our little village of Russell. I first met Jonathan when my daughter and his sister played on the same hockey team. When he became an ambassador for DEBRA Canada, the community started fundraising for his ongoing treatment and to help him realize his dream of seeing the Northern Lights. Jonathan’s positive outlook and love of life are infectious and inspired me to reach out to my co-writer friend North Easton and write the song Butterfly Child to help with the fundraising efforts. I called up the township, the schools and local businesses about making a music video and not one person hesitated. Everyone was excited to help make it happen – we had about 200 people involved in the video shoot, it was incredible.” says Tara. “Jonathan is so authentic and real….he inspires everyone who hears his message of hope. The song is an expression of his spirit – supporting him on his journey is an honour and to call him friend is a gift.”