Salford Red Devils raised money to support the work of the MND Association, at Saturday’s match against Leeds Rhinos.

This follows the diagnosis of Rhinos legend Rob Burrow with the condition and a request from supporter, Paul Donegan, whose two friends Steve Corfield and John Edmonson, have recently been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.

Paul and a group of the volunteers will be bucket collecting at the the AJ Bell Stadium on matchday and a JustGiving page has also been setup, to allow supporters to donate online at: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/devils4mnd

Donegan said: “Having watched the BBC interviews with Rob Burrow, Doddie Weir & Steve Darby last week and how they are courageously dealing with this dreadful MND, I spoke with Salford Red Devils to see if the club could support some fundraising activity and general awareness of MND at their game against Leeds Rhinos this Saturday. 

“I have two close friends John Edmondson and Steve Corfield who live locally and have also been diagnosed with MND. 

“I just felt we all needed to try and do something to help all these guys and anyone else who is unfortunate enough to have MND. 

“The club readily agreed by allowing a team of volunteers I have drafted together to hold a bucket collection on the day at the AJ Bell Stadium and publicise the JustGiving page which has been set up for the MND Charity.”

The inspirational work of Rob Burrow and fellow sporting legends by publicly speaking about MND has touched many Red Devils supporters and the club wishes to do everything possible to raise further awareness and vital funds for families affected by this devastating disease.

Salford Red Devils director Paul King said: “This cause is one close to the hearts of everyone involved in rugby league.

“We have all been inspired by the unity shown in the sport since the news concerning Rob Burrow.

“We were more than happy to support the initiative when Paul came forward and we’re grateful for his enthusiasm, as well as the practical support of Esther Fifield, Community Fundraiser at MND association and Club.” 

Motor neurone disease (MND) is a fatal rapidly progressing disease that affects the brain and spinal cord, attacking the nerves that control movement so muscles no longer work. It kills a third of people within a year and more than half within two years of diagnosis.

It’s a devastating disease that affects up to 5,000 adults in the UK at any one time and kills six people every day. There is no cure.

The MND Association is the only national charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland focused on MND care, research and campaigning.

Denise Davies, Head of Community Fundraising at the MND Association, said: “Without the amazing support of organisations like Salford Red Devils, the MND Association simply would not be able to provide its vital support services, fund research to find a cure and campaign and raise awareness of MND. Together we are making a real difference for people affected by this devastating disease.”

Source & Image: www.salfordreddevils.net