Rugby player's posthumous message to the world offers an inspiring takeaway for all of us

Life often throws unfair tricks at us. But sometimes, when we can not understand or cope with it, loved ones and well-wishers come to the rescue. Because with their life lessons and encouragement, it becomes easier to go through the many challenges. Rugby player Robert, known as Rob Burrow, recorded one such message to be the light of humanity. The 41-year-old athlete passed away due to his motor neuron disease (MND), reports BBC News. Burrow was diagnosed with the same in 2019, post his retirement from a 17-year-old outstanding career as a rugby player. He recorded a message for the world to be shared only after his passing, which has now been shared on BBC's Instagram page. 

The former player had recorded the speech for a BBC documentary titled "There is only one Rob." Burrow had requested that the message be shared after his death. Dealing with his diagnosis had been challenging for him and his family. However, Burrow kept a strong spirit and encouraged others to do the same. His profound message was shared after the athlete passed away on Sunday. Lindsay Burrow expressed her pain and pride for her husband in a statement. She called him her family's "hero." "Although we knew this day would arrive, I am somehow still feeling at a loss for words that our loving, kind and caring husband and father has departed," she said. 

"We take comfort from how much people's love and continued support meant to Rob through his most vulnerable times," Lindsay added. The rugby player's message was an uplifting and challenging one. Burrow hoped for a cure to the condition along with his poignant words for the world. "I hope one day we find a cure and live in a world free of MND. By the time that you watch this, I will no longer be here," he says in his message. "I am just a lad from Yorkshire who got to live out his dream of playing rugby league." 

Burrow shared a few words about how his life changed due to his diagnosis and how he paved his way through it. "As a father of three young children, I would never want any family to have to go through what my family has since my diagnosis," he mentioned. The man who had a rich career with eight Super League Grand Final wins, three World Club Challenges and two Challenge Cups shared what he learned from his disease. "I hope I have left a mark on the disease. I hope it shows how to live in the moment. I hope you find inspiration from the whole story," he stated. Burrow urged people to live every moment and understand that "every moment is precious." 

Toward the end of his message, he shared a heart-wrenching challenge for all. He said, "My final message to you is whatever your personal battle, be brave and face it. In a world full of adversity, we must still dare to dream." Concluding his message with salutation, he said with a smile, "Rob Burrow, over and out." The documentary is available on BBC iPlayer. The late player's words have undoubtedly left a mark on millions of people. His family has begun construction for an MND Care Center in honor of Burrow in Leeds, UK, to help provide for many like the legendary Burrow.