Leeds Rhinos legend Rob Burrow revealed how he first showed signs of having motor neurone disease (MND) when he started slurring his speech at an awards event.
The Rugby League star’s life was the subject of a heart-wrenching ITV documentary Lindsey & Rob: Living With MND on Thursday night. It showed a glimpse into his life, where his besotted wife acts as carer to him and their journey to raise money for their local MND centre in Seacroft via the Leeds Marathon.
During the tragic programme which aired at 8.30pm (June 8), Rob’s ex-teammate explained how he first showed signs he was unwell at an awards ceremony while he was playing for Leeds Rhinos.
Read more: ITV viewers in tears watching heartbreaking Rob and Lindsey Burrow scenes in MND documentary
His teammates recommended Rob visit the team’s doctor to check out the issue. After he was seen, Lindsey recounted the heart-breaking moment the nurse told them Rob had a serious problem, adding that this completely blindsided her.
Rob said: "When I was diagnosed, I think I took it better than Lyns. I think I was just happy for it to be me and not anyone else in my family."
Rob’s dad Geoff broke down into tears when he opened up about how Rob told him the awful diagnosis. Rob, who spent his whole sporting career at Leeds Rhinos, was keen to come forward with his diagnosis early in December 2019 to spread awareness of the debilitating illness.
According to the NHS website, early symptoms for MND can include:
- Weakness in your ankle or leg – you might trip, or find it harder to climb stairs
- Slurred speech, which may develop into difficulty swallowing some foods
- A weak grip – you might drop things, or find it hard to open jars or do up buttons
- Muscle cramps and twitches
- Weight loss – your arms or leg muscles may have become thinner over time
- Difficulty stopping yourself from crying or laughing in inappropriate situations
Read next:
