good morning my Lord Lieutenant Lord mayor Mr Speaker ladies and gentlemen it's with a real mix of emotions we welcome you here today um we're here of course to celebrate and commemorate Rob's life and also to say thank you um for everything he did um I want to particularly welcome Rob's family here today and also those who cared for rob during his illness uh my name is Jonathan prior I'm the deputy leader of Le City Council um so I'm just going to run through a few short bits of housekeeping uh before we start um the uh the bathroom is uh just back the way you came and there are no fire alarms scheduled so if one does go off please uh leave the way you came in an orderly manner um Rob had a huge impact on on the people of Leeds um we know this through the council uh and even behind me you can see where Rob and Kev were given the freedom of the city and after this event there also the the formal documents are at the end of the chamber you were in earlier so I do urge you to go and have a look at those we're going to hear from a lots of speakers today who will be talking about um how Rob took his diagnosis and did something positive with that gave a voice to the m andd Community helped raise millions of pounds and will leave a lasting positive Legacy on this city and the whole world we're now going to start with a short video thank you I'm Only One Call Away what about the day when you heard that Leeds were interested in signing you as a dream to play for lead that's what I wanted to do as a young L that's all I thought about burrow has got the possession burrow still burrow oh fabulous this kid is all Talent he's got support from Rob burrow and wigam won't stop this fellow he's over on the sticks great try wonderful try from [Music] burrow me part of the first championship um leads have won for for many years was just was just an outstanding U outstanding [Applause] he was just an honor playing for your country you know I I just love playing out there and now than I was on the back of some good team stuff Fant 2007 was was was fantastic for me thankfully I've been part of the side in 2008 2009 we've come you know to make this made hisory as a [Music] [Applause] club thir in a anyone can the can on the break could be one of the SE could be one of the since he started he's always been the Joker of Joker of the pack without a doubt you're getting this reputation as a dirty player I don't know twice I've got Sim and I've been punched twice but um one day I'll get some let me tell you first of all that every single member of the media here tonight voted for you as man of the mat it was 100% it's never happened before the character in the team we never give in and got ring won the have won the [Applause] trouble L every minute of my career and you know tonight's today for the first time ever in the newly redeveloped headingly Stadium the houseful signs go up as rugby league supporters from near and far gather to offer for their encouragement and friendship to one of sports genuine gentlemen a ro enters the field hero of heading Le what a man we used to get out there you're an absolute Champion inspiration put on your listen go out there and wave to everybody there because they they've come here to see your dad and you know your dad's a very special man don't you yes yes the members we get we're all billionaires something you nobody can ever take away from you [Music] [Music] thank you very how do you speak thank you all so much for coming Lord Lieutenant br's family friends elected members distinguished guests I am absolutely honored and proud to have this opportunity to welcome you to the Civic Hall and to this Civic Memorial event to commemorate and celebrate the life of Rob borrow CBE We Gather here today with heavy hearts to commemorate the life of Rob who was a beloved husband father friend and an exceptional athlete who inspired us all Rob's battle with Muran disease M andd since his diagnosis in 2019 was fought with say with the same courage determination and tenacity that defined his career on the Rugby field Rob was just was not just a remarkable Sportsman he was a Beacon of Hope a source of strength for countless individuals throughout his career with Le rhinos Rob dazzled us with his agility his speed and unwavering spirit standing at just 5 foot five he was often described as the smallest player with the biggest heart his statue never defined his capabilities rather it was his resilience and skill that left an indelible mark on the sport and all who watched him Beyond his athletic achievements Rob's Journey with M andd brought a new level level of awareness to his devastating disease even in the face of his diagnosis Rob continued to inspire and uplift those around him his courage in sharing his battle publicly helped to shed light on the realities of M andd and brought attention to the need for research and support for those affected Rob's Legacy extends far beyond the rugby pitch he showed us the true meaning of Bravery not just through his athletic progess but through his grace and positivity in the face of adversity no wonder he left us with the same in times of adversity let us Dare To Dream he remained a dedicated family man always finding joy in his time with his with time with his loved ones his love for his family was evident in every smile every word of encouragement and every moment spent together I was privileged to be invited to watch Rob's private preview film of the BBC at the leads Everyman Cinema at leads Trinity in October 2022 where I met Rob Lindsay and their beautiful children that day would always remain in my heart I was also honored to be present in January 2023 when Rob and Kevin were made h freemen of the city our lead's highest Civic honor this was in recognition and appreciation of the honor and distinction brought to the City by their outstanding sporting achievements their Char charitable work with leads hospitals and the M andd Association and their support to The Wider M andd Community yesterday I went to meet the inspirational Dr agam Jung and her team at the ccraft hospital and I heard all about the journey to building a dedicated beautiful bepoke space for M andd patients I was touched to meet the leads M andd team who I've seen some of them here today thank you so much for coming who actually cared for Rob and to learn more about this Dreadful disease what impressed me the most about my visit was the palpable sense of hope and determination among the staff and within the center Dr jun's passion and expertise on M andd is exemplary and I just want to say thank you you despite the challenges posed by m andd the team's unwavering dedication to their patients well-being and their commitment to ad to advancing care and treatment options were truly inspiring the vision for the new center and the tangible progress being made towards its realization reflect a profound commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those affected by m and as we remember Rob today we also celebrate the impact he had on our lives his story is one of unyielding determination profound love and the power of the human Spirit Rob taught us to cherish every moment to face our challenges headon and to never lose sight of the importance of community and support to Rob's family we extend our deepest sympathies your strength and support have been a source of inspiration for all of us we honor Rob's memory by continuing to fight for a cure for M andd and by supporting those affected by this disease his legacy will leave on in our hearts of everyone he touched and his spirit will continue to inspire future Generations I met dad mom and sisters today thank you so much for coming God bless you let us remember not just for the extraordinary athlete that he was but for the extraordinary person he was his life though cut short was filled with purpose and passion he leaves behind a legacy of resilience hope and unwavering love the love and respect has been expressed for Rob since he passed has been incredibly moving to see he made a massive difference to the lives of lots of us here in leads both on and off the pitch and we will always remember him finally again to Rob's family and friends it is my prayer that you all continue to find strength and comfort through the days the weeks months and the years ahead thank you all so much for coming [Applause] Lord mayor good morning everyone I'm very pleased to have the opportunity to say a few words on this important occasion when we honor the memory of Rob burrow one of our truly Great West Yorkshire citizens and sports Heroes my name is Ed Anderson I have the honor and privilege of being the Lord left tenant of West Yorkshire his majesty the king's personal representative in this County but I'm also here as a longtime supporter of the leads rhinos I had a season ticket right through the glory years from 2004 to 2017 when Leeds rhinos won eight super leagues two challenge cups and three World Club challenges it was a wonderful team packed with Heroes and Superstars but for me the player who stood out was always Rob I will never forget the gasps of excitement every time he got the ball and seemed to miraculously squeeze through non-existent gaps before accelerating away from his opponents and we saw a glimpse of that earlier I shared the sense of shock that everyone felt when he was diagnosed with motor neurone disease shortly after his retirement and I have been truly inspired by the courage shown by Rob Lindsay his wider family and of course the incredible fundraising efforts of Kevin sinfield and I'm so pleased that the work has now in progress on the new Rob burrow Center at coft hospital I had the privilege of meeting Rob on a number of occasions including here at the Civic Hall when he and Kevin were awarded the freedom of the city the last time I met him was in February this year when the princess Royal as patron of the M andd Association came to a lunch at hingley to thank fundraisers for their support Rob burrow and his family have made an incredible impact upon so many people in Leeds West Yorkshire and much further a field including right across the world I pray that as a result of his work f his diagnosis the awareness of M andd has been raised to the extent that a cure may be found before too long for this terrible disease I know that the Prince of Wales was delighted to present Rob with his CBE in January today as the king's personal representative in this County I salute the memory of one of West yorkshire's true greats thank [Applause] you good morning everybody um and again welcome to lead Civic call I'm counselor James Louis and I'm leader of lead city council and I'm really pleased we've been able to work to bring um this event together I think it's really fitting that we're able to um commemorate Mark Rob's life in Leeds a city where he made his name with the Leeds rhos and you know for people um who I know this from the work I've done in many national roles for people that don't live in Yorkshire or laner or Cumbria or chesher the sport of rugby league can be a bit of a mystery to them this um strange Northern thing we have that um um that brings us so close together in the north of England and the reaction we saw um across leads and across um the country after Rob's death was um really so touching over the road um on the wall of leads Becket University students union there is a um a mural that has Rob's own words on it and in a world of adversity we have to dare to dream and that was one of the many places where so many floral tributes were laid um after the sad news of Rob death heading the stadium um and around the city and it is really fitting that we as a city are coming together um to celebrate this as well I'm uh uh and to commemorate uh Rob's life and look at how we can find a fitting tribute I'm a counselor for um kiix methley Ward um which is finally divided between leed's Rhino's fans and Castleford tiger fans and you know over the years there's been a bit of rivalry um um um there's been a bit of rivalry but actually in recent years um the the fact that we've all come together everybody um to support um um and to support Rob's family and to support the battle against M andd is so moving as a city and leads um we will work in the months ahead to find a fitting long-term commemoration we have the Rob borrow uh marathon where people um contest themselves against the challenge of running a marathon I know there's people in the room who have um competed in the marathon we will also look about how we can find a fitting long-term Legacy but I know for um many people that Legacy will be in finding a cure for M&D a horrible disease and if we can U work together to find a cure for that disease and to find the therapies it will be a fitting tribute and I think that's something I'm so proud um is um being done in leads working with our Hospital trust and the Rob bow Center at crof hospital so if that can be a legacy it' be Absol absolutely right one I'm sure everybody in this room is really committed to working towards that thank you and I'd like to introduce now a video of Rob Burrow's family what has it been like being Rob Burrow's dad oh well it's been marvelous ever since you were [Music] born they always used to say oh he's good is that Rob but he's never going to make it cuz he's not big enough yeah lovely Rob [Applause] [Music] oh we used to get so nervous you know when you see all these big players coming on field and they used to think oh my goodness me you know I'm I'm glad I'm glad he were fast oh he's it's a brilliant fantas it were their worst nightmare [Music] I can't I don't even know how he tackled all them big giants on the field it's just he's a little Legend my hero it's the little man wearing the number seven and it is seven heaven for the leads rhinos when the kids were BN it take them to play groups and and they were all you know mostly moms there and Rob didn't care you know it'd still go with the kids anything that made the kids Happy Rob Rob would do the way that he's helped us as a family um has just been in incredible so proud in everything he's done they are going to find a cure then we can all say we were strong enough to fight for it like Rob's always done 3 2 1 to achieve what has achieved I'm so proud of [Applause] him what can you say after that um that video I uh I I just wanted to start by saying this is a you know it's a sad occasion in many ways but it's also a a happy one as well this this building the Civic Hall is one where it's a very special building in the city it was built by people in the 30s as a public works project and um it has um moments when we've got to deal with real difficult issues um but it's also quite an uplifting place where weddings happen it's the the the citizenship ceremonies happen on the w it's got the people as well as Rob and Kev who've got the freedom of the city Nelsa Mandela and others um we have the the council meetings here that are obviously equally uplifting for everybody um and uh and so yeah let's let's celebrate as well as um as well as Mark um what is a moment of of sadness I I just I was wanting to talk about um just pay tribute to the family I mean when people ask me about you know would talk talk about Rob and say oh yeah no how amazing he was they I would I would say to them absolutely and his family are as well um you know they're such such good people nice people um from you know Lindsay and the kids they they had to rush here today by the way because um mayor got pupil of the week um and I was just saying to Lindsay I um Macy mayor and Jackson I am going to watch them you know they are they whatever they choose to do in their lives I'm sure they're going to they're going to take that Spirit of Rob with them um Jeff and Irene as well you know you could see when you meet Jeff and iron you see what um you know what Rob where Rob got it from and um and it was great to see uh Jeff with a shovel by the way I remember that from that day because I understand that hasn't been seen very often um in the past but um no it was uh that they've been they've been amazing as well and Lindsay's family here as well John CLA who I who I met recently too you know you are an absolute credit to to all of us and I think the celebration today is as much you know is about you as well and I know that's what Rob would have wanted um the um the the other family of course Rob has got is his um two other families extended families that he've got he's got the rugby league community and the leads rhinos and I'd just like to pay tribute to to them as well though this has not been easy for them um and they've been you know incredibly um inspiring as well in the way that they've responded and got behind the M&D um cause and you know that I I used to say you know people as well they ask us about the sporting clubs in the city and we love all our sporting clubs I say that as a middlesbor football club um season ticket holder um so don't tell anyone but you know they are we've got some fantastic sporting clubs in the city but the Rhinos if you had to invent a a sporting club to to be part of a city at the heart of its Community it would be Leeds rhinos and the Leeds rhinos foundation and I I grew up with football rather than rugby league but when I came to working leads and um I got to know more about rugby league rugby league is a proper Community sport it is something that you know you you just know when you go to a match and when you're with people from that community that they're you know they're what you'd say are real people they they really they don't have that edge and that extra sense of um you know being being something better that they're just part of rooted in communities and um and the rhin knows whenever we used to do Civic events like this the players through the years would always be the ones chatting to the school kids getting involved you know they'd turn at whatever we asked them to do and um and yeah just you know again Rob and kev's friendship and you know the Legacy that that leaves in terms of the marathon and the money that's going to raise but it's not any old marathon it's one where you know they've taken that friend that sense of friendship and that sense of community and the M andd cause and it makes it very special anybody who was there you know for the for the runs and saw the community reaction to it um and then finally the the M&D colleagues and Community you know that is something that we are going to stick with you we're going to make sure that crof becomes that Center of Excellence for the families and the way that they have to deal with these um the this this terrible disease but we're also going to help you know fly the flag for that cure cure and make sure that we you know we're right at the heart of that as a city um you know just just to finish the I mean I drive in actually I'm a I'm you know I'm not even from leads um I'm another one of these and you know the Castleford leads thing is really interesting for me as well it's a bit like Kev having Alder and and Leeds you know that sense of to get those two places to actually unite about something is quite hard um and so you know that Yorkshire Spirit has has Shone through but I drive past the m andd center and I also drive past that mural and um I you know we don't really need we we there's been things over the years about what's the logo of leads you know how do you sum leads up and um you know Rob has solved that problem for us um because in a world full of adversity you must dare we must dare to dream again sums up this city um you know we have some people in this city every day who are going through real trauma and you know really struggling and really need help but at the same and and at the same time we have amazing things happening in the city people achieving their potential doing really really well and that's what leads us about as well it's both of those things that's what makes it such an amazing City and that what what that is what made Rob such an amazing person that he he made that achievement and that ambition happen but he never lost his roots he was always kind and compassionate he always kept that sense of family and um I am totally inspired every time I go past that and um we've got to make sure that we continue to be Inspire inspired and Rob said make make Every Day Count um because it is precious thank [Applause] you can I first of all say Lord May Lord leftenant Irene Jeff Lindsay and family what a privilege it is to come to leads today on a day that moves us all this is about rubil we can boast many great players we all have our favorites over different Generations every Club has its most iconic legendary figure and leads can boast many such individuals however I can say without fear or contradiction that no one has more respect and more Rec recognition and more love than one said Rob Barrow playing the game in the age of seven he immediately had an impact as we've just seen supported by his parents Irene and Jeff he went on to staring Junior and amateur ranks before signing for leads throughout his early career the phras was he's too small was often heard so let's just examine his r record eight grand final winners medals one of those would have done for Warrington just one three lead three League leaders medals two challenge Cup winners medals three World Club Championship medals 18 International appearances two Harris Sunland trophies one of the match appearance in the Grand Final not bad for a guy who was too small of course many great players of the game don't have any anything like this what a t of medals while we are all in awe of his heroic battle with M andd we should be equally in awe of his playing career Rob's contribution to the success of Le rhinos was absolutely critical he broke many hearts along the way and when I heard that sad news the rug League family shed a tear but I've got to tell you rob burrow made me cry many times I was on the risk receiving in of defeat he knew how to upset me but he will always be forgiven speaking as a warrant of wol supporter I can well remember the occasions of that devastating impact Rob would have on the games when he would simply turn it on its head after a piece of individual Brilliance which we've seen perhaps the most memorable of all was his 50 m solo try against cellence in the 2011 Grand Final but in ear to Saints he did that kind of thing to every team in the league as with all walks of life the best of the most meaningful tributes are those received by one peers in Rob's case the number of tributes was immense there were too many to read out here but perhaps one that stood out for me was former Sydney roosters wigam Warriors Ace Adrien lamb who said having played against Rob he really realized it was time to retire he simply couldn't compete Rob's impact on the game was marched by his impact on the M andd Community just like at the start of his prank CER he defied the odds he battled bravery he achieved so much raising Millions with the loving support of his family and friends Rob has taken our understanding of awareness of M andd to a whole new level significantly helped in the Advan and efforts to find treatments and ultimately a cure the research that would never have happened is now happening it is a legacy that he could be so proud of we know there are illnesses and critical illnesses we never talk about this was one of those Rob has ensured we talk about it he has awakened a world where we weren't taking it seriously I've got to say I had the privilege I remember remember meeting Rob in Parliament a couple of years ago I was overwhelmed by his positivity his energy that surrounded everything he did despite the impact of M andd that was having on him and in the midst of such tragic circumstances the rug bague Community once again showed itself as it is in the best of doing it the way it was supported Rob Lindsay and family were there he was proud of his family and they've got to say there was one friend that will always stand out Kevin simfield I still say Sir Kevin simfield because if anybody ever deserved it it was Kevin and Rob knew that as well some wrongs we have to put right and I will Luke to try and do that it was about the money that was raised it was about fighting an illness it was about research it is about Hope for other people that may would well would never have been there without Rob let us remember that a true definition of the community has been displayed time and time again and I know that this will continue for years to come give him the respect and the love everyone had for Rob his positivity his determination a resilience that grip the hearts of the nation and I know there will always be an inspiration to so many others a true real belue legend an inspirational fighter against a cruel disease a loving family man Rob will never be forgotten and he will always be admired he will be that rugby league Legend he will be that Warrior he will be that Fighter for us all I've Got to Now say we're going to go on to the next recording of Rob's father Jeff thank you everyone thank you when the Battle Scars have faded and the truth becomes a lie and that weakend smell of liniment could almost make you cry when the last tackle is well behind you and the man who ran now walks it doesn't matter who you are the mirror sometimes talks have a good look there son although the times were great kev's nose texes a sharp turn sidewards when it used to be dead straight Barry's gone and got new teeth and Keith's gone a little lame and you just might ask the question why the hell you played the game was the logic in the arake in the bruises and the cuts did Common Sense get pushed aside by manliness and guts do you sometimes sit and wonder why your time would often pass to be targeted by that forward so you could put him on his ass and still they run at you each and every week you think that they would learn size and power can be gained but respect is one your word rob you must recall the jersey that you wore with such PR with such Pride how you made the critics Grumble and sent those big men off to ey it's almost worth admitting though with some degree of Shame there is reasonable to ask why the l you played the game you were the first on duty every game excited just to go caffeine cing through your veins but the man they had to know laughing joking or playing pranks you were ready for the show down the steps on the field edly was your patch adoring fans and fearful foe it was you they tried to catch you won the lot but more still the game was never dull even when you lost your head and took a swing at all we'll never forget that famous night when you lit up Fergus St that left bar wellow on the deck and Saints all in a rage but then with every wound reopened as you grimly reminisce it comes a most compelling feeling yet God you bloody miss it from the first time that you laced your boots and titled every stud the vus known as rugby has been living in your blood when you you dreamt it when you played it all the rest took second fiddle now standing on the sideline but your art still in the middle no matter where you traveled you can take it as expected there will always be a breed of people hopelessly infected if there's a teammate you will find him like a gravitating force with a common understanding and a tail all three of course and as you stand there telling stories like like it was yesterday old friend you know that if you had the chance You' do it all again you see that's the thing about rugby it will always be the same and that I guarantee is why that L Rob played the game [Applause] good morning everybody I'm so delighted to be standing here as the chief executive of the MMD Association to really try and put into words what Rob meant to us all in the M andd Community Rob represented something different to each and every one of you in this room family friend teammate neighbor sporting Legend but most of all beloved Son husband and dad to us in the M andd Community Rob became our figurehead a private man who selflessly agreed to open up his whole life to the world for the benefits of everyone affected by m andd now and in the future when four and a half years ago Rob found himself in the horrendous situation of being diagnosed with mot neuron disease he made the incredibly Brave decision to talk about it with honesty bravery and humility and not just once he did it over and over unflinchingly documenting the impact of this disease and its progression not just on himself but on those around him his wife Lindsay his young children his mom dad family and friends by doing so he really allowed the world to see how the disease left him increasingly debilitated he raised awareness of M andd like no other and the challenges it brings to an unprecedented level a man who was at Peak Physical Fitness like Rob and so many other people with m D who lose their ability to walk to talk and eventually move but still he allowed us into his life to show the brutality of this disease but most importantly to show people with M andd that they weren't alone he wanted to campaign for a better future but he wanted to take everyone with him the qualities that clearly made him a great and unique player on the rugby pitch his grit his determination his passion and commitment made him the very best of ambassadors for us and for people living with this condition or the man on the street or the postman as Rob used to tell us a community completely resonated with him people who have never met him totally took him to their hearts and really loved him in Rob's final broadcast message recorded using his ey gaze machine and shared after he' passed away he said he hoped he left a mark on M andd he's certainly done more than that he's changed the dial for people with this disease and many others living with disabilities he was the first person to read a c BB's bedtime story using his eye gaze he hosted an entire podcast series interviewing sporting greats and joined people with M andd when they campaigned in Parliament to win 50 million pounds to work out how we treat this disease and work towards a cure research funded by that money is now really underway and Rob has driven that he described heartbreakingly accurately the M andd comes for your voice it takes your legs it tries to rob you of your breath but it absolutely cannot sap your spirit and how right he was his Spirit was always apparent in abundance the twinkle in his eyes the jokes the smart onliners even using his machine he totally lit up a room that spirit that zest for Life the determination to never be beaten has inspired thousands of people across the world because he shared his life living with M andd I've heard so many heartwarming stories for people who've read Rob's story who've watched one of his documentaries they've seen the involvement in the m m andd community and they have to join the fight the M andd Community now has people volunteering with us campaigning with us raising awareness raising money all because of the work of Rob they're making a difference to many many people just like robs and his family at the most difficult time of their lives another six people today will receive that devastating diagnosis another six people tomorrow will receive it too right now there are more than 5,000 people in the UK living with M andd and each one of them has family friends neighbors and colleagues hundreds of thousands of people who are affected by this disease at the M andd Association we will strive to reflect Rob's drive his passion his determination in everything we do he was our Patron and we feel truly humbled and proud to have had the pleasure of meeting and working with him his family and The Wider rugby Community I see it as our duty to carry the Baton to ensure that his legacy is honored and marked in absolutely everything we do with and for the community now and in the years ahead people diagnosed with M andd to May today tomorrow and in the future will be met with all the love the understanding and with even more possibilities and that's all down to this great man so thank you and all our [Applause] love I'm not giving in to my last breath you know have too many reasons to live I met doy he showed me the path I needed to go down the positivity is humor unfortunately I can't really speak this is nothing like my voice was but hopefully through lots of inter views and audio you know I can tell the kids off and still do that you know and and tell them I love them no Rob this is your chance any voice accent you want is this your turn to be Scottish Scottish [Music] no couldn't ask for a better help them my beautiful wife Lindsay I know when you get married you say that you will be there in sickness and in health I did not think she s up to look after me so soon Mr Robert burrow for services to rugby and to Muran disease awareness during covid-19 I said it is an honor to meet you my princess Roy winds a castle is lovely and I have enjoyed being here she told me that I made such an impression on the awful disease your Royal Highness told me to keep fighting your best [Music] fight I could not be any more proud of my kids and how they have just got on with life they are living their best lives and I couldn't ask for any more from them your three kids who got ma mayor Jackson keeping you feet on the ground very much grounded very much present aren't they rob I love it when they are loving life it makes you want to never give in the kids are living their best lives I love seeing them smile and be so funny dad remember big smile five four three three two one action hello I'm Rob I can't use my voice in the way that maybe you can which is why I use this computer to talk for me it's like magic please welcome onto the stage Lindsay burrow Kevin simfield and this year's Helen rollerson Award winner Rob burrow [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music] well my friend it is finally here and I have done n all training for it I hope you have made I'm finally getting involved in an event for me I will be honestly proud to finish it with my mate in the same [Applause] time nice to who's got the most tries out of you two inv long I think he knows that as well she laughing she laughing hopefully through the C we have done we have helped to make people aware of them and need to give people and families affected by the disease we have to keep raising funds to fight this disease and look after those with them until we have a cure [Applause] how do you follow that uh good morning my name is Paul Watkins uh I'm the director of fundraising at leads hospitals charity it's my absolute privilege today to talk to you alongside such esteemed speakers to reflect on Rob Rob's lasting Legacy today we're here to remember Rob in many roles but I want to recognize amongst his other achievements the test the lasting and profound impact his campaigning and fundraising has had and will continue to have on the motor neuron disease Community whilst I didn't have the privilege of knowing Rob on a personal level I did have the pleasure of meeting him and his family on many occasions and was fortunate enough to be on the receiving end of one of those magical smiles and twinkles of his eye and anyone who's had been on that that side will remember it for as long as they live as we've already heard today Rob was many things to many people a rugby hero a legend if you're on the opposing side your worst nightmare come true a mate an inspiration and the very best family man at lead Hospital's charity we were also proud to call him our Patron and like in every other aspect of his life he gave his all unconditionally if we asked and he could he would he was the ultimate teammate since it launched in September of 2 uh 2021 the charity has been so fortunate to have had the unwavering support of Rob his family and friends for our appeal to build a Rob burrow Center for Moor neuron disease I have I often speak of the power of the word yes and when Dr Jong first approached us with a vision for a new Specialist Care Center back in 2020 we recognized it was going to be a huge challenge for the charity to raise 6.81 million but from the point at which we said yes to funding the center wonderful things happened new friendships were forged Partnerships made and communities brought together it soon became apparent after Rob agreed to lend his full backing that his story had resonated far beyond the rugby Community inspiring and touching the hearts of not only the people of Leeds Yorkshire and the UK but also around the world as Rob and Lindsay became patrons for the charity the whole family have got involved with his sisters Joe and Clare putting on Strictly events in hingley and Blackpool to Lindsay bravely undertaking so many interviews and telling your personal and private stories as well as donning your running shoes running the mar the first Rob burrow leads marathon and half marathon and of course Rob's incredible parents Jeff and Irene being at every event they could to to support their son and then there were Rob's friends his teammates some of whom are here today who ran cycled did interviews attended events and were even asked to dance all to help raise the profile of the cause of M andd it was impossible to say no to this man and then there were then there was his best friend his team captain the man we all affectionately call Sev if you can make that work Lindsay that would be great thank you um and is Kevin S field and his magnificent fundraising team have demonstrated the true power of friendship and have raised over3 million pound towards the center through their three epic challenges with a fourth planned in December and where Kevin LED others followed inspired by their friendship and Rob's story we saw fundraisers up and down the country begin to support the appeal each had their own inspirational story from Ian flat here today um successfully scaling Seven Mountains recently to Katy dson covering hundreds of miles in memory of her dad Warren to the leads rhinos and the Rhinos foundation for their unceasing support again demonstrating the value of teamwork and being a mate there when you need when your need is greatest building the center was Rob's dream and last month on the 3rd of June less than three years on from the launch of the appeal I attended the groundbreaking event at coft hospital it was truly a Bittersweet day as we know Rob should have been there with his family to witness and celebrate this Milestone but sadly he died just a day earlier Rob's family honored his last wishes for the event to go ahead attending themselves and demonstrating Incredible strength and courage at one of the saddest and most vulnerable moments in their lives clearly bravery is a gene that runs very deeply through that family this time next year we'll see the opening of the center's doors it was never about his name above the entrance for Rob it was about the huge difference it would make to people living with MD M andd their families and the dedicated staff caring for them the center will create a lasting Legacy for Rob and the whole M andd community and leads and Beyond a place where patients and their families can receive the best care in the best environment delivered by the best team some of whom are here today it will be a source of comfort and a physical symbol of the indelible Mark Rob has left on the world it's a place where the word yes will Echo a testament to what can be achieved when communities align in a common cause and as the doors open welcoming those in need the legacy of Rob burough will continue to inspire to motivate and to remind us all of the Power of unity and the enduring strength of the human Spirit which he personified he has truly transformed awareness and conversations around M andd and having brought a community together has taught us all the importance of living in the now and making every moment truly count his life has changed and will continue to change others for the better your legacy and that of your incredible family will live on thank you Rob [Applause] wow too many stories to tell five minutes to distill and crystallize the impact the influence that Robbo had on the golden generation of players my preference is better get a roaming Mike to walk up and down tell the stories from the heart I'm conscious I'd still be a Tuesday if I did it that way um so I've written a little bit down but uh I'd like to first start by welcoming everybody in that rubber League Community for coming along and being a part of today's event you've all about heard about the the cast leads the Alm leads I want to share it from a leads leads point of view and I'd like to thank the city as well for recognizing The Life and Legacy of Robbo and allow allowing us one more time to reflect on the impact that he had on this great City and the people within the people that I reside with the city that I grew up in the city that gave me so much I've listened to a lot of testimonies stories quotes anecdotes insights inspirations whilst reflecting myself on no's life and I just wanted to share a few things that I'll always be with me and the people that knew him number one gratitude the gratitude that many people have for having known Rob for being a part of his life for sharing in that identity in the blue and Amber Jersey for all those kids out there I want you to think about the lessons that he taught us all for the opportunity that we've all got to live by the examples that I set one person said said to me that it's hard to stay sad when you have a heart full of gratitude to know of all the medals the Rings the achievements the accolades the stadiums that I've played in they all bear complete insignificance compared to the relationships the memories forged that golden generation of players and Rob was a beating heart the lifeblood at the center of that generation number two find your gift and give it away a quote from Pablo Picasso that stuck with me in my memory for the last few weeks because what a lot of people thought was a weakness in Rob in his size Rob made his superpower that was his gift his blazing speed his strength his agility and his ability to change direction in the way that we've all seen in that tribe from 2011 pound for pound he was the strongest in the gym he was a comedian he was the funniest and he proved all the they say is wrong it wasn't just world class it was a master at his craft he Shan through his gift every single week and he gave it to the day team on a daily basis so for all those young people out there whoever it is you want to be wherever it is you want to go just believe you can do it go get at it and break all the rules and change perceptions like Rob B did number three life is about living the six inches in front of your face the six inches in front of your face it was a quote from alucino Any Given Sunday and I I didn't know this I learned this last week that Rob listened to it on a regular basis I think if you're involved in sport you'll have heard that famous speech it's an inspirational one for me it's about being present in a moment present enough to see all those opportunities that are right in front of your face and go get after him present enough to see Tony POA turning late as we're seeing in that 2011 try and having the courage to get after it to live a life where you're constantly preparing to be the best version of yourself so that you can serve your mates and get after those opportunities when they present themselves to be uncomfortable to be enjoy enjoy being challenged to be comfortable with being uncomfortable because that's where we learn that's where we grow the most growing isn't always comfortable but according to our Pino that's where living is and take R we lived in a world and this might not sit well with some where safe was an acronym for staying average forever now there's obviously places where being safe is obviously important there's nothing wrong with being safe but Rob wasn't average it was extraordinary number four have courage Rob was without doubt the most courageous human being I've ever met and I don't think he as I've said a million times I don't think he grew an inch after his 10th birthday but he wanted to play a glad torial game d know was Tiny and he was doubted by a lot of people but he turn up and he take on the biggest players two or three times bigger than him sometimes we' see him called world class tries and it'd be recorded for time in Immortal and sometimes they get him and then knock him into the next week but every time Rob would get up and he'd go again and again and again he had no fear he was just filled with courage then he lived the second chapter of his life so publicly so that a light was sh and a community that needed it and we've all seen the influence of that the most courageous human being I have ever met in my life and in a world full of anxiety Rob burough showers out would be courageous number five this is a quote at the bottom of the tunnel at edley Stadium AMT a few meters away from the home chain UNS and it's from Rob himself it says these are a special Band of Brothers I'm so proud to know them you can't have friends like that without going through the experiences we have Rob bro when he's talking about experiences I think that's the key word I think to live a life fulfilled we've got to live a life where we meet Triumph and disaster and treat those two imposters just the same to quote rard kiplin that deep meaningful relationships affords through being built up together and being torn down together it's a little bit like mining lots of little bits of ore out of the floor precious metals and they get molded melted down through adversity and then built up rising from the ashes like the Phoenix and molded into a bronze standard and then they get melted down again and all the drw and impurities get cleaned off and they get remolded into a silver standard and they keep going through gold through Platinum so it almost becomes this ubiquitous consciousness of Purity that's what we enjoyed at Le through the Triumph and disaster persevering together as a group as a generation there's almost this telepathic Connection in the end a spiritual enlightenment and this intuition that run through the whole team and for me it just proved that there's little that you can't achieve or overcome when you're committed committed committed to doing it together committed is the key word number six do it for a minute with a mate the robber all these barin a deep Citywide collaboration involving foundations organizations and lots of people from the city coming together tens of thousands of people taking part in the marathon inspired by Rob and his teammate Kev watching them Bang a Drum ring a bell Shine the light on a community preceding the marathon and that's what got them all involved they wanted to be a part of that Journey a part of that story 12,000 competitors 7,000 Spectators for two years running felt that desire to come and be a part of it too I don't think either NE in my lifetime certainly not in my career there'll ever be a more powerful physical image that symbolizes true friendship and altruism in the way that Rob and Kev crossed the line in 2023 and lastly number seven this idea this truth in my opinion my mind that love is a verb Love Is A Verb it's in the doing the doing is at the root the emotion and the passion is in the fruit when you think about it somewh like a proverbial musard seed so small the doing is in the digging the planting the nourishing the growing and in time we're presented with the fruit and the fruit when you taste it that's where the experience is that's where the passion is but you don't get the fruit without the doing at the root so in the words of alucino what are you going to do what what are we going to do to continue Rob's Legacy well we've just heard there about the Rob buau Center for M andd what a wonderful opportunity that would be to see the final bricks put in in Rob's Legacy fulfilled but whatever it is you decide to do between now and then I encourage you please remember the life that Rob lived learn from the lessons that he taught us all and live by the examples that he set and I invite you leads just one more time dare to dream and find the Gratitude in everything that you do embrace your gifts and be courageous in taking on those challenges that are right in front of your face do it with the people like you love and do it for the people that need it the most thank you [Music] I am just a l from yire who got to live out his dream of playing rugby [Music] league as the father of three young children I would never want any family to have to go through what my family and children have since my diagnosis I hope I have left a mark on the [Music] disease I hope it shows to live in the moment I hope you find inspiration from the whole story my final message to you is is whatever your personal B be brave and face it every single day is precious don't waste a [Music] moment in a world full of adversity we must still Dare To [Music] Dream Rob over and out e [Applause] [Music] I just want to thank everyone for um attending today and I think uh Jamie said it best in what are all we going to do to take Rob's Legacy forward thank [Applause] you for