7 July 2023 News
The Motor Neurone Disease Association has today (7 July) celebrated Rob Burrow Day in recognition of the incredible impact and achievements of our patron Rob Burrow MBE.
Rob was a former scrum half for Leeds Rhinos, England and Great Britain and wore the now iconic number 7 shirt in his playing days. Soon after his diagnosis of MND in December 2019, Rob shared this devastating news with the world in an effort to raise awareness of the terminal illness, for which there is no cure.
Since that announcement, Rob and his family have gone above and beyond to shine a spotlight on the disease, bravely sharing the realities of Rob’s journey with MND. By doing so, the Burrow family have inspired tens of thousands of people to join the fight against MND – campaigning, fundraising or volunteering for the MND Association.
During Rob Burrow Day, examples of Rob’s impact were showcased on social media with the MND Association sharing testimonials from the MND community and how the incredible fundraising efforts in honour of Rob have improved, expanded and accelerated our work.
Hear from the community:
“Rob Burrow has been known for being a small man making a big impact on the rugby pitch. Now he’s making a bigger impact on the MND pitch. His incredible bravery and dedication to the fight against MND makes me proud to be part of his MND team.”
Natalie Pike, who is living with MND
“Rob sharing his story raised the profile of MND, amongst the public, including myself, who were unaware of the devastating effects the disease has. Without his story and the inclusion of MND in television series I am convinced I would not have realised I was a sufferer as early as I did. he has inspired me with his strength and support he receives from friends, family and the association and has been of enormous benefit to me in my own struggle with MND.”
David Morgan, who is living with MND
“After watching the devastating news about Rob Burrow’s diagnosis on the evening news, I was inspired to start volunteering for the MND Association. As an Association Visitor I support people affected by MND to access the support they so desperately need. This can range from low level emotional support, signposting to other services, supporting with grant applications and fundraising events”
Alex Shann, volunteers for the MND Association
What we’ve been able to achieve:
Fundraising efforts in honour of Rob mean we’ve been able to fund more support for people affected by MND across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and kickstart new research into effective treatments. Amongst other projects, this support has helped us to:
- Recruit to a new role supporting children, young people and families affected by MND. Our Project Worker has helped to expand our programme of vital support, which includes memory making days, the introduction of volunteer roles to support more families and tailored counselling for children and young people – which has been described as a ‘lifeline’.
- Invest more than £1.5million into cutting-edge translational research projects, like the MND Collaborative Research Fund – a three-year project led by experts at University College London and University of Sheffield looking to accelerate progress in developing treatments for MND. We’ve also been able to invest in trial centres so more people living with MND can take part in clinical trials.
- Expand our MND Connect helpline team, who offer information and support to people affected by MND, and health and social care professionals. In 2022 alone, the team supported thousands in our community – answering more than 6000 calls and sending more than 5,500 emails.
- Continue funding our network of 22 care centres across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, including the centre at Leeds, which work to improve the support and co-ordination of services for people living with MND and their families.