Motor Neurone Disease:
A Relentless Illness with No Cure

Why We Row

What is MND?

Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is a terminal neurological condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. It causes the gradual loss of muscle control, leading to weakness, paralysis, and eventually the inability to move, speak, eat or breathe.

There is no cure, no diagnostic test, and very few treatment options. Life expectancy after diagnosis is typically 2–5 years.

MND doesn’t discriminate - it can affect anyone, at any time.

The Legacy of Rob Burrow and Doddie Weir

Two Legends. One Shared Fight.

Rob Burrow and Doddie Weir were elite rugby players, teammates, and heroes. They became symbols of courage off the pitch after both were diagnosed with MND — Doddie in 2016, Rob in 2019.

Rather than retreat, they led the charge — using their voices and platforms to raise awareness and funding for research. Their fight inspired a nation. Their strength gave people hope.

ROW4MND is proud to carry that legacy forward. The number 57 in our £57 million target comes from the numbers they wore — Doddie’s 5 and Rob’s 7.

Why We Can’t Wait

  1. 1 in 300 people will develop MND in their lifetime.

  2. 140,000+ new cases are diagnosed worldwide every year.

  3. Every 90 minutes, someone in the UK is diagnosed with MND.

  4. Life expectancy is typically 2–5 years from diagnosis.

  5. There is currently no cure, and no test to diagnose it early.

Learn more at mndassociation.org

Where Your Money Makes a Difference

We’re rowing to raise money that will directly fund:

✅ Groundbreaking Research - Funding clinical trials, lab work, and new drug development aimed at slowing or stopping MND.

✅ Treatment Innovation - Helping fast-track experimental therapies and improve care for those already diagnosed.

✅ Awareness and Advocacy - Creating documentary content and high-profile campaigns to bring MND to the global spotlight.

✅ Hope - Every donation helps bring us closer to a future where a diagnosis doesn’t come with a countdown.