On Sunday, legendary rugby player Rob Burrow passed away at the age of 41 after having been diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) in 2019.The diagnosis came just two years after he retired from the sport, following a career that spanned 17 years.
During this period, he won eight Super League Grand Finals, three World Club Challenges and two Challenge Cups.His former club, Leeds Rhino, announced his death and called Rob Burrow a "beacon of hope and inspiration" throughout his life, whether that was on the rugby league field or within the MND community.Regarded as one of the most successful rugby league players in history, Burrow was made an MBE in the 2021 New Year Honours for his services to the sport as well as his hard work and contribution in the MND community.
The star raised millions for a new MND care centre in Leeds alongside close friend and ex-team-mate Kevin Sinfield.But what is MND, what are the symptoms?
Here is what you need to know and the symptoms to look out for.Motor neurone disease, often shortened to MND, is a condition which affects the brain and nerves.