Rob Burrow said he wanted work on a new motor neuron disease center to continue as planned before his death. Leeds Rhinos confirmed yesterday that Burrow had passed away aged 41 after battling a debilitating illness.
Burrow was diagnosed with MND in 2019, two years after retiring from a successful career with Leeds that saw him reach eight Super League grand finals, three World Club Challenges and two Challenge Cups.
A national inspiration, Burrow and his team-mate Kevin Sinfield have raised almost £15 million for MoD-related charities. His legacy continues through the Rob Burrow Center for Motor Neurone Disease, to be built at Seacroft Hospital in Leeds.
Burrow’s close friend Phil Daly told BBC Breakfast: “We mentioned a breakthrough, and we’re going to do a breakthrough today. That was Rob’s hope. We talked to Lindsey on Friday and this is what he said: We can do it. Don’t waste a day. Rob said we I don’t want to waste another day, starting today.
“It does not at all reflect on the excellent job the NHS staff who looked after Rob have done, but the facilities are far from perfect. If you receive such a diagnosis in a facility that currently exists, the whole situation becomes far too much worse.
“This center will be a place where people can get a diagnosis and really figure out their next steps. Rob has been at the heart of the planning here and there will be a family area to help children understand in a comfortable environment.”
Professor Phil Wood, Chief Executive of Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, said: “As well as his commitment to overcoming this issue, we must acknowledge the hard work of Kevin Sinfield and especially his team of seven. His incredible fundraising has helped our partner charities get to this point. Realize your vision.
“I think the determination of Rob and Lindsey, two of our staff who have been absolutely by his side and have continued to look after their patients throughout this whole time, is truly inspiring. Today is a great day for patients not only in Leeds but across the wider region. and families, we are very proud of our role in curing this devastating disease.”
Former Leeds team-mate Jamie Jones-Buchakan said: “Rob stood out. He was brave. He spoke in a world where courage is lacking and many people feel insecure. I think physical prowess is his superpower. I think, and that’s what shines through.
“Living with the Ministry of Defense took that away from him, but his courage never waned, but instead shone brighter. The love and impression he left behind on all who fought for the Ministry of Defense community, when he stood up, spoke out and fought for what mattered.
“And to do this with his team-mates, especially Kev, is something that transcends not only rugby league and sport, but also the country. The legacy he will leave behind is the people he impressed on so many important things.
“From December 15, 2019, when he first heard this news, to June 2, 2024, those two dates and what happened between them will never leave him.
“It puts a strain on me every day, not just for me but for all of us who wear the blue and amber badge and cross country and the rugby league community continues to come together to remember what Rob did, why he did it and what we need . That’s Rob’s legacy and something he continues to strive to achieve in life.”
The Prince of Wales said Burrows would be remembered as a “legend” with a “huge heart”.
In an emotional statement, Sinfield wrote: “Today was a day I hoped would never come. The world has lost a great man and a wonderful friend to so many. You fought bravely until the end and became a beacon of hope and inspiration.” , not just for the Department of Defense community, but for everyone who has seen and heard your story.
“You were the toughest, bravest person I’ve ever met. For the past four and a half years, you’ve shown the world what life and love can look like, and this has always been done with the biggest smile on your face. I will miss you. “My little friend.”
