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The brave actions of rugby legend Rob Burrow have helped to increase understanding of motor neurone disease (MND) among nurses and the public, the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has said.
The RCN paid tribute to Mr Burrow and his “extraordinary” work raising awareness and funds for MND.
“His work in this area was as extraordinary as it was inspirational”
Nicola Ranger
Mr Burrow, who had an extremely successful 16-year professional rugby career with the Leeds Rhinos, died on Sunday, 2 June at the age of 41 from complications of MND.
MND is a degenerative condition whereby the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord – called motor neurones – stop working over time. There is currently no cure.
The disease affects up to 5,000 adults in the UK at any one time, according to the MND Association.
Father-of-three Mr Burrow announced his MND diagnosis in December 2019 and then continued to share his journey with the public, including through a number of BBC documentaries.
He became a patron of the MND Association and joined the United to End MND campaign which, in 2021, successfully lobbied for a £50m government investment into MND research.
Millions of pounds have also been raised for MND charities by Mr Burrow and his supporters – most notably his friend and former teammate Kevin Sinfield – over the past four and a half years.
The day after his death, construction began on The Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease – a new specialist care facility that will be run by The Leeds Teaching Hospital NHS Trust.
Mr Burrow received royal honours in 2021 and 2024 for his contributions to rugby and MND awareness.
Speaking at RCN Congress 2024 this week, former RCN president Maura Buchanan highlighted Mr Burrow’s legacy and asked for an acknowledgement from the RCN of “how much we admire and were inspired by him”.
Ms Buchanan said his was “a life well lived to the very end”.
Her comments were met with a standing ovation and a promise from RCN acting chief executive and general secretary Professor Nicola Ranger that she will write to Mr Burrow’s widow, Lindsey, to share the college’s condolences.
In the letter, Professor Ranger said: “There is a profound sense of admiration for all that Rob did to raise awareness of motor neurone disease.
“His work in this area was as extraordinary as it was inspirational.
“He opened up his life to provide insight into the impact of MND on you, his family and friends, and himself.
“It was his dedication to this cause that helped increase understanding of MND both among nursing staff and the wider public.
“The vital funds he raised for research provide hope for the future and a lasting legacy.”
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