Remembering Rob Burrow CBE

Everyone at MND Scotland is deeply saddened to hear that English rugby star, Rob Burrow CBE, has died aged 41 from motor neuron disease (MND). 

The former England and Leeds Rhinos player was diagnosed with MND in late 2019, only two years after retiring from his playing career. 

Supported by his wife Lindsey, and their three children Macy, Maya and Jackson, Rob bravely shared his story with the world, including alongside fellow sports stars Stephen Darby and the late Doddie Weir OBE. 

In September 2021, Rob joined other people affected by MND to deliver a letter to 10 Downing Street, urging the UK Government to invest £50 million in targeted MND research, under the UK-wide ‘United to End MND’ campaign, which led to a successful outcome for people with MND across the UK.  

Rob inspired so many to fight back against MND, including his former teammate and close friend, Kevin Sinfield. Sinfield has taken on four annual challenges, with another planned for December 2024, raising millions to allow charities, including MND Scotland, to continue to support people living with MND. 

Rachel Maitland, Chief Executive of MND Scotland, said:

“Over the course of his illness, Rob raised an incredible amount of awareness of MND and how the disease can progress, inspiring thousands of people across the UK to donate and fundraise for new treatments and better support services.  

“His campaigning work through United to End MND also helped secure lasting change for people living with MND today, and those yet to be diagnosed, by securing a £50 million commitment for targeted MND research from the UK Government. Rob leaves an incredible legacy that everyone in the MND community can be enormously proud of.  

“Our thoughts are with Rob’s loved ones during this difficult time.”