MND campaigner Geoff Burrow, Rob Burrow's dad, dies after illness

MND campaigner Geoff Burrow, Rob Burrow's dad, dies after illness

Leeds Rhinos have announced the passing of Geoff Burrow, father of the late rugby league icon and Motor Neurone Disease (MND) advocate Rob Burrow. Geoff died following a brief illness, with the club expressing profound sorrow over his loss.

The club’s statement highlighted Geoff’s impactful role as a passionate campaigner for the MND community, a mission he undertook after Rob was diagnosed with the disease in December 2019 and continued even after Rob’s death in June 2024. They remembered him as a devoted family man, who introduced his son to the Rhinos by taking him to his first match at Headingley. Geoff was also recognized for his lifelong commitment as a trade union representative, tirelessly advocating for those without a voice.

In November of last year, Geoff Burrow was present at the inauguration of the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease at Seacroft Hospital in Leeds. He reflected on the moment, stating that the realization of the centre was a testament to dreams becoming reality. The £6.8 million facility was made possible thanks to donations raised through Leeds Hospitals Charity, with former teammate Kevin Sinfield playing a key role in fundraising efforts. Geoff described the centre as not only a resource for those affected by MND and their families but also as a haven for the dedicated staff, whom he praised as “marvellous” and “angels.”

Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust’s director of estates and facilities, Craige Richardson, also paid tribute to Geoff’s invaluable contributions. Richardson emphasized Geoff’s steadfast involvement throughout the two-year development of the centre, noting his enthusiasm and dedication in championing the project to create a lasting legacy in Rob’s name. Reflecting on the centre’s opening day, he said, “He loved it and he was incredibly proud. That will stay with us all.” He added that Geoff’s passion for advancing research and finding a cure for MND will continue to inspire ongoing work at the centre. The trust extended their heartfelt condolences to Geoff’s wife, Irene, and the entire Burrow family during this difficult time

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