The Devastation of Motor Neurone Disease

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of having coffee with someone truly special: Steve Roebuck. Steve, the Head of Quality Assurance and Certification at Rolls-Royce Civil Aerospace, has supported me incredibly over the years.

Steve has not only booked me for my masterclasses but has also recommended me to his colleagues at Rolls-Royce, leading to countless opportunities. Building meaningful relationships like ours is one of the most rewarding aspects of running my business. I am deeply grateful for people like Steve, who have played a pivotal role in my journey.

When COVID brought everything to a standstill, Steve was my first contact from Rolls-Royce once restrictions were lifted. He wasted no time booking me to deliver a session for his team, opening the door to many more collaborations.

During our conversation, Steve mentioned someone I had never heard of before. But as he described this individual—his incredible achievements and the transformative work he is doing now—I knew I had to include his story in this week’s blog.

The man in question is Kevin Sinfield, a former rugby league legend and one of the sport’s greatest players. However, his legacy isn’t just about his time on the field.

The real story is what Kevin is doing today: raising millions of pounds for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) research, inspired by his close friendship with Rob Burrow, a teammate diagnosed with this devastating condition.

In the photo accompanying this post, taken just two weeks ago, you’ll see Steve Roebuck on the left and Kevin Sinfield on the right. Steve had the privilege of meeting him, and now I have the privilege of sharing Kevin’s remarkable story with you.

This is his story:

Unbelievable mindset

Kevin Sinfield’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and unmatched commitment, both on and off the rugby field. Widely regarded as one of rugby league’s greats, Sinfield’s legacy goes far beyond his athletic success.

Early Life and Rugby Career

Born on September 12, 1980, in Oldham, England, Sinfield showed a passion for rugby from a young age, eventually joining the Leeds Rhinos, where he enjoyed an illustrious career. Known for leadership, tactical intelligence, and composure under pressure, Sinfield achieved legendary status during his 18 years at Leeds Rhinos:

• Captained Leeds to seven Super League Grand Final wins.
• Won two Challenge Cups and three World Club Challenges.
• Scored over 4,000 points, ranking among rugby league’s top scorers.

Praised for his sportsmanship and professionalism, Sinfield earned immense respect in the sport. In 2014, he was awarded an MBE for his contributions to rugby league.

Friendship with Rob Burrow and Fighting MND

In 2019, Sinfield’s close friend and teammate Rob Burrow was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND). This devastating news spurred Sinfield into action, making him a tireless MND awareness and fundraising advocate.

Extraordinary Fundraising Efforts

Sinfield undertook immense physical challenges to support MND research:

• 7 in 7 Challenge (2020): Ran seven marathons in seven days, raising £2.7 million for MND charities.
• 101-Mile Ultra Marathon (2021): Ran from Leicester to Leeds in 24 hours, raising £2 million despite injuries and exhaustion.
• Ultra 7 in 7 Challenge (2022): Ran seven ultra-marathons in seven days, demonstrating a relentless determination to help Burrow and others with MND.

Latest update today, 7^th December 2024

Rugby star Kevin Sinfield has started the final leg of his 230-mile fundraising run for people affected by motor neurone disease (MND).

He set off from the BBC’s studio in Salford Quay just after 08:00 GMT today before heading to Manchester United’s football stadium.

His latest nationwide challenge began in Liverpool last Sunday in memory of his teammate Rob Burrow, who died with MND in June.

He said he was expecting “brutal” conditions but would be “battling on”, with Storm Darragh expected to bring strong winds to western parts of the country.

“To see schools come out and understand what MND is, to see schools talk about friendship and how to look after people properly, is a wonderful message for us to pass over.

“But it’s the money that’s going to change things,” said Sinfield, who agreed to remain assistant coach for the England rugby union squad in October.

Legacy

Sinfield’s actions redefine heroism, emphasising loyalty, compassion, and impact. His fundraising, which has raised millions, highlights the power of collective effort.

In 2023, Sinfield was knighted for his contributions to rugby and charity, becoming Sir Kevin Sinfield—a true symbol of leadership and humanity.

His story reminds us that true heroism lies in the lives we touch and the causes we support.

Thoughts for the week.

1. How can you use your skills to impact your community positively?
2. What causes are you passionate about, and how can you contribute meaningfully?
3. What legacy do you want to leave, and how can you start building it now?
4. When have you shown resilience in the face of challenges, and how can you build on that?
5. This week, ponder the phrase: ‘One of the true ways to happiness is helping others’.

Well, that’s it for this week. Have a wonderful weekend, and keep believing.

Warm regards

John