Kevin Sinfield Praises ‘Superwoman’ While Continuing His Journey Without Rob Burrow
KEVIN Sinfield is shocked for two main reasons – by the challenges faced by individuals living with motor neurone disease in 2024 and by the incredible efforts of ‘Superwoman’.
The rugby league icon, now serving as England RU skills and kicking coach, initiates his fifth physical challenge today to raise funds for treatment and awareness of the illness.
In the upcoming week, he and his team will run over 50 kilometers each day, divided into seven-kilometer segments that commence an hour apart from one another.
This challenge marks the first without the man for whom he is doing this, his close friend and former Leeds Rhinos teammate Rob Burrow, who passed away in June after battling the condition for four-and-a-half years.
However, learning about the experiences of others diagnosed with the disease – such as rugby union player Ed Slater and footballer Marcus Stewart – motivates him to keep going.
Sinfield expressed: “I’m truly amazed, and that’s why we must continue our efforts. Unfortunately, the reality is that we haven’t invested enough money, research, time, or energy into finding a cure for MND.”
“We haven’t. So while that remains the situation, do we just stand by and let this happen, or do we strive to create change? Our team is dedicated to making a difference.”
“I hold Ed in high regard. I cherish my friendship with him, and witnessing the toll this disease takes on young families, especially those with young kids, is heartbreaking.”
“It’s easy to see why we’ve persisted in our efforts. It destroys families, and by 2024, this should not have to be happening.”
“I recognize that there are many other severe diseases and conditions out there, and we need to assist everyone, don’t we?”
“While our focus is on the MND community, we’ve always urged people to support others and contribute in whatever way they can.”
“Whether that’s in Rob’s name, supporting someone affected by cancer, or helping individuals with dementia, it’s all incredibly valuable.”
Sinfield, who will conclude the challenge in his hometown of Saddleworth, Greater Manchester, has already raised around £10 million through his efforts. The donations made in Burrow’s name elevate that total even higher.
Moreover, witnessing the incredible dedication of his friend’s wife, Lindsey, who has taken on the responsibility of caring for her husband while simultaneously raising three children and maintaining her job, leaves Sinfield in awe.
“She’s Superwoman,” he stated simply, explaining that he will be sustained during the challenge by bacon butt sandwiches, coffee, and marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge’s Maurten sports drink. “There’s no doubt about it.”
“To do what she has done – caring for Rob throughout this time, raising three kids, continuing her career, and running marathons – I have the utmost respect for her. She embodies the spirit of a true Superwoman and continues to do so.”
“She’s likely the most inspiring woman around right now and has been for quite some time.”
“I realize there are many inspiring women, but when you want someone to exemplify love for family and care for others, few are willing to share their lives in such a public way.”
“Not many would willingly open their lives to the public, exposing how challenging it can be. She has done a remarkable job, and I commend her for that.”
“Undoubtedly, she will face ongoing challenges as she navigates life without her soulmate, yet I firmly believe she will continue to advocate and uphold his legacy with pride.”
DONATE to Kevin Sinfield’s Running Home for Christmas challenge at https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/kevin-sinfield-and-teams-fundraising