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KEVIN Sinfield is taken aback for two primary reasons – the hurdles confronted by those living with motor neurone disease in 2024 and the remarkable efforts of ‘Superwoman’.
The rugby league legend, now acting as the skills and kicking coach for England RU, embarks on his fifth physical challenge today to generate funds for treatment and awareness related to the illness.
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This upcoming week, he and his team will run over 50 kilometers each day, divided into seven-kilometer intervals that start an hour apart.
This challenge is the first without the man for whom he is undertaking this, his close friend and former Leeds Rhinos teammate Rob Burrow, who sadly passed away in June after a four-and-a-half-year battle with the disease.
Nevertheless, learning about the struggles of others diagnosed with the condition – such as rugby union player Ed Slater and footballer Marcus Stewart – inspires him to persevere.
Sinfield remarked: “I’m genuinely astonished, and that’s why we must persist. Regrettably, the fact is that we haven’t allocated sufficient funds, research, time, or energy toward discovering a cure for MND.”
“We haven’t. So while this situation persists, do we simply sit idle and watch it unfold, or do we strive to instigate change? Our team is devoted to making a difference.”
“I hold Ed in great esteem. I value my friendship with him, and seeing the impact this illness has on young families, particularly those with small children, is heartbreaking.”
“It’s apparent why we’ve continued our efforts. It devastates families, and by 2024, this shouldn’t be happening.”
“I acknowledge that there are numerous other serious illnesses and conditions out there, and we must support everyone, right?”
“While our focus remains on the MND community, we’ve always encouraged people to assist others and contribute in whatever ways they can.”
“Whether that’s in Rob’s honor, aiding someone battling cancer, or helping those with dementia, every bit is immensely valuable.”
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Sinfield, who will wrap up the challenge in his hometown of Saddleworth, Greater Manchester, has so far raised around £10 million through his initiatives. The donations made in Burrow’s honor further increase that total.
Additionally, observing the incredible commitment of his friend’s wife, Lindsey, who juggles caring for her husband, raising three children, and maintaining her job, fills Sinfield with admiration.
“She’s Superwoman,” he asserted simply, explaining that he will sustain himself during the challenge with bacon butt sandwiches, coffee, and marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge’s Maurten sports drink. “There’s no doubt about it.”
“To accomplish what she has – caring for Rob throughout this journey, raising three kids, continuing her career, and running marathons – I have the utmost respect for her. She epitomizes the spirit of a true Superwoman and continues to do so.”
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“She’s possibly the most inspiring woman around right now and has been for quite a while.”
“I understand that there are many inspiring women, but when you seek someone who embodies love for family and compassion for others, few are willing to share their lives so publicly.”
“Not many would choose to expose their lives to the public, revealing how tough it can be. She has performed remarkably, and I applaud her for that.”
“Undoubtedly, she will face continuous challenges as she navigates life without her soulmate, yet I firmly believe she will keep advocating and honoring his legacy with pride.”
SUPPORT Kevin Sinfield’s Running Home for Christmas challenge by donating at https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/kevin-sinfield-and-teams-fundraising
