Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease — A New Beacon of Hope in Leeds
- Super League Raw
- Nov 3
- 2 min read
On Monday, November 3, 2025, the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease officially opened its doors at the Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust’s Seacroft Hospital in Leeds. This centre is named in tribute to Rob Burrow CBE, the renowned rugby league star of Leeds Rhinos, who tragically passed away in June 2024 at the age of 41 after a brave fight against MND. Rob Burrow’s vision was always clear: to establish a facility that treats individuals living with MND as unique persons rather than just a condition. Today, that vision has become a reality.
What the Centre Provides
This is the first facility in the UK specifically designed for MND care, research, education, and holistic support.
The centre has been developed in close partnership with patients, families, clinical specialists, and Rob's family to create an environment that is both compassionate and state-of-the-art.
The fundraising campaign successfully achieved £6.8 million, with over 17,000 donors supporting the initiative.
A Legacy of Community and Courage
Rob’s former teammate, Kevin Sinfield CBE, played a pivotal role in the fundraising initiatives that united the community and reinforced a collective commitment to improving care for individuals with Motor Neurone Disease (MND). Dr. Agam Jung, consultant neurologist and Director of the new center, described its opening as a “legacy of Rob’s strength, his family’s support, and the compassion of an entire community.”
Why This Matters
MND is a devastating progressive condition that profoundly impacts individuals and their families. The establishment of a dedicated, purpose-built facility ensures that care, research, and support are integrated in one location, with an environment specifically tailored to meet the needs of those living with MND. Notably, the construction was completed less than 18 months after Rob’s passing, underscoring the urgency and dedication behind this project.
Looking Ahead
The centre is not merely a tribute to one individual; it is designed to serve as a model for exemplary MND care. The staff emphasize the ethos of “living in the now”—a philosophy embraced by Rob—which focuses on supporting individuals to maximize each moment rather than solely concentrating on the disease. Although the facility has officially opened, fundraising and development efforts will continue, with future plans including a therapeutic garden, expanded family support services, and enhanced research programs.
Lindsey Burrow, Rob’s widow, said:
“It’s a really special day. Just incredibly proud to be here, to have so many of the staff that work at the centre and the patients here, it’s such an honour to be here.”
Sally Hughes of the MND Association noted:
“The Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease marks a transformative moment in care for people with MND in Leeds and across West Yorkshire.”
Super League Raw's Final Word
The opening of the Rob Burrow Centre for MND stands as a powerful testament to what can be achieved when compassion, community and purpose converge. For those living with MND, and the families who support them, it offers not just care — but dignity and hope. Rob Burrow in death, has been ground-breaking and inspirational as he was in life.
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