It's safe to say that everyone in the Rugby League family now holds the MND Association close to their hearts, inspired by the remarkable courage and unwavering positivity shown by Rob Burrow in his battle with the disease. His legacy continues through the incredible, selfless efforts of Kevin Sinfield, who has worked tirelessly to raise awareness and vital funds through a series of demanding challenges.

Sadly, not long after Rob’s passing last year, MND became even more personal for our family when we received the devastating news that it had touched one of our own — news no one ever wants to hear.

Fast forward to the end of April, and I felt compelled to take action. Having not run for more than two to three weeks at a time over the past four years, I made a commitment: to run the Manchester Marathon in 2026 for my Uncle Jeff, and to help raise funds that will support both research into this relentless disease and the families and individuals affected by it.

Running 26.2 miles after starting from scratch in just 50 weeks won’t be easy — but it pales in comparison to the daily struggle faced by those living with MND. I hope every donation, no matter the size, helps bring us one step closer to making a real difference.

Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is a progressive disease that attacks the motor neurones, or nerves, in the brain and spinal cord. This means messages gradually stop reaching muscles, which leads to weakness and wasting.

MND can affect how you walk, talk, eat, drink and breathe. However, not all symptoms necessarily happen to everyone and it is unlikely they will all develop at the same time, or in any specific order.

Although there is currently no cure for MND, symptoms can be managed to help you achieve the best possible quality of life.

We need your support.

£120 could provide an overbed table, making it easier for someone with MND to eat, drink and read safely and comfortably in bed

£280 could fund the coordination of care for someone with MND at a Care Centre for a year

£500 could provide a tablet device with specialist communication software, allowing someone to communicate with loved ones