KEVIN Sinfield is surprised for two primary reasons – the obstacles encountered by those living with motor neurone disease in 2024 and the remarkable efforts of ‘Superwoman’.

The rugby league legend, currently the skills and kicking coach for England RU, begins his fifth physical challenge today to generate funds for treatment and raise awareness of the disease.

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Throughout the next week, he and his team will cover over 50 kilometers each day, split into segments of seven kilometers that begin an hour apart.

This challenge is particularly significant as it’s the first one dedicated to his dear friend and former Leeds Rhinos teammate Rob Burrow, who tragically passed away in June after enduring the illness for four-and-a-half years.

Yet, discovering the experiences of others afflicted with the disease – including rugby union player Ed Slater and footballer Marcus Stewart – inspires him to press on.

Sinfield remarked: “I’m genuinely astonished, and it’s why we must persist in our endeavors. Sadly, the reality is that we haven’t devoted sufficient financial resources, research, or energy toward discovering a cure for MND.”

“We haven’t. So, while this is the case, should we merely stand by and allow it to happen, or do we strive to effect change? Our team is committed to making a difference.”

“I hold Ed in very high regard. I value my friendship with him, and it’s heart-wrenching to see the impact this disease has on young families, especially those with small children.”

“It’s clear why we’ve continued in our mission. It devastates families, and by 2024, this shouldn’t be happening anymore.”

“I acknowledge there are numerous other serious illnesses and conditions out there, and we need to support everyone, don’t we?”

“While our focus is on the MND community, we’ve always encouraged people to lend their support to others and contribute as they can.”

“Whether that’s in Rob’s name, backing someone affected by cancer, or helping individuals with dementia, it all holds immense value.”

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Sinfield, who will finish the challenge in his hometown of Saddleworth, Greater Manchester, has already raised approximately £10 million through his initiatives. Donations made in Burrow’s name further increase that total.

Moreover, witnessing the extraordinary commitment of his friend’s wife, Lindsey, who manages to care for her husband while raising three children and balancing her job, inspires awe in Sinfield.

“She’s Superwoman,” he simply stated, explaining that during the challenge, he will rely on bacon butt sandwiches, coffee, and marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge’s Maurten sports drink. “There’s no doubt about it.”

“To achieve what she has – looking after Rob throughout this time, raising three kids, continuing her profession, and running marathons – I have profound respect for her. She embodies the essence of a true Superwoman and continues to do so.”

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“She’s perhaps the most inspiring woman in the world right now, and has been for some time.”

“I acknowledge there are many inspiring women, but when you think about someone who embodies love for family and care for others, few are willing to share their lives in such a public manner.”

“Not many individuals would voluntarily expose their lives to the public, revealing how tough it can be. She has done an incredible job, and I applaud her for that.”

“Undoubtedly, she will face continually shifting challenges as she lives on without her soulmate, yet I firmly believe she will continue to promote and uphold his legacy with pride.”

DONATE to Kevin Sinfield’s Running Home for Christmas challenge at https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/kevin-sinfield-and-teams-fundraising