Tributes have been paid to Rob Burrow – the former rugby league star who worked tirelessly to raise awareness of motor neurone disease (MND) following his diagnosis of the condition – after he died aged 41.
Leeds Rhinos, the club where Burrow spent his entire career and won eight Super League titles, said the former player passed away at Pinderfield Hospital, near his home, surrounded by his loving family, after falling ill earlier this week.
Read more: Rob Burrow dies aged 41
The Prince of Wales, who presented former player and teammate Kevin Sinfield with CBEs earlier this year, he posted on X that Burrow was a “Rugby League legend” and “had a huge heart”.
“He taught us: ‘in a world full of adversity, we must dare to dream’,” he added. “Catherine and I send our love to Lindsey, Jackson, Maya and Macy.”
In their statement, Leeds Rhinos said Burrow had “earned every honor at the club as part of its golden generation” and added: “A hard-working and dedicated player, his fearless performances have made him one of the most respected players in the Rhinos ranks. .”
The club then said: “Appropriately, as a tribute to the incredible work done by Rob, the opening of the new Rob Burrow Center for MND at Seacroft Hospital on Monday will go ahead as planned, at Rob’s request.
“Well-wishers wishing to pay their respects to Rob can do so in the South Stand of Rob’s beloved Headingley Stadium, with the gates open from Sunday evening for visitors to arrive.”
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak called Burrow an “inspiration to everyone who knew him or heard his incredible story”.
He added: “I was honored to spend some time with him last year. He led a fundraising campaign that supports vital new research that improves the care of others – notably through the creation of the Rob Burrow Center for Human Diseases Motor Neurons in Leeds.
“He leaves an incredible legacy and my thoughts are with his friends and family.”
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Sir Keir Starmer also said the MND activist’s death was “extremely sad news” and added: “Rob leaves an incredible legacy in his work to raise awareness and advocate for those with motor neurone disease.
“My thoughts are with his family and friends during this time.”
Rugby union player Andy Goode also said: “RIP to legend and absolute warrior Rob Burrow, sad news but what an absolute champion he was.”
Former football analyst Chris Kamara also said: “What a soldier Rob was. He fought a real battle with the MND.
“Rob raised awareness and funds despite his condition for others to benefit. The impact he leaves will be lasting. RIP Rob, what a hero.”
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The chief executive of Leeds Hospitals Charity, which Burrow supported, said he was “an inspiration, not just to the people of Yorkshire, but to the whole nation”.
Esther Wakeman added: “Rob and his family courageously shared their personal story with all of us and showed us how to live life to the fullest in the face of adversity.
“Even when his own voice failed, he gave voice to the entire MND community, giving people hope and spreading joy with his infectious smile and unwavering sense of humor.
“Thanks to Rob’s dedication and support, we raised £5.8 million to help bring Rob’s dream, a specialist center for people living with MND and their families, to life.”
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