Dan Walker, 42, responded to a clip from ITV news which featured Rob Burrow speaking about being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) at the age of 37. MND affects the brain and nerves, and causes weakness that gets worse over time, according to NHS.
Rob said he has taken inspiration from Scottish former rugby union player, Doddie Weir, 49, who announced he was diagnosed with MND in 2017.
Dan continued: “Love the fact that Rob has met with @DoddieWeir5 this week to discuss the battle ahead.”
ITV’s post read: “Tonight on Calendar at 6pm we hear from @leedsrhinos legend Rob Burrow who has been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease at the age of 37. A trust is being set up to support Rob and his family.”
In the interview clip, Rob admitted it was a “shock” when he heard the news about his health.
The married father-of-three became tearful as he spoke about the reaction from his loved ones.
He said: “When people want to help so much… And you can’t repay them, very humbling.
“Overwhelming, forever grateful to all my mates who have text are real friends. Can’t thank them enough.
Some of Dan’s 607,000 followers responded to his tweet, with one person writing: “Oh this is just too sad. Strength to share is incredible – a cure must be found.”