True hero Doddie Weir raised £8m to fight disease that killed rugby icon at 52
Scotland rugby legend Doddie Weir helped raise over £8m to fight motor neuron disease (MND), the very illness that sadly claimed his life today.
The 52-year-old's death was announced earlier this evening by his wife Kathy, who described him as an "inspirational force of nature" and a "true family man".
Weir was diagnosed with MND in 2016, and a year later he set up the My Name'5 Doddie foundation, a charitable organisation which raises money for MND research as well as for support for sufferers and their families – and it was announced in June that they'd collected more than £8m for the cause.
READ MORE: Doddie Weir dies at 52 after Scottish rugby legend's battle with MND
Following news of Weir's death, chief executive of the foundation, Jill Douglas, said in a statement: "Doddie enjoyed a full life full of fun and love. And it was this approach to life which shone through in his determination to make a difference and help others when he was diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
"He inspired us every day with his positivity and energy and was fully committed to the work of the foundation he launched with his close friends in November 2017."
The foundation's aim is to help to find a cure for MND and to eventually wipe it from the face of the Earth, and Douglas insisted the team would carry on the fight in Doddie's honour.
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"My Name’5 Doddie Foundation continues to shine a light on MND and the need to seek meaningful treatments and, one day, a cure for this devastating disease," she added.
"The Foundation has raised significant funds through the amazing efforts of our incredible supporters and has committed £8million to MND research over this time. We have also given considerable funds to people living with MND and their families to help them live as fulfilled a life as possible.
"Our vision of a world free of MND remains at the heart of our strategy. As we look to the future, we will honour Doddie’s name and deliver on his legacy."
Weir, whose real name was George, won 61 caps for Scotland and made several appearances for the British & Irish Lions during the late 90s. He began his club career with Newcastle Falcons before joining Border Reivers in his native Scotland, and hung up his boots in 2000.
The Doddie Weir Cup, awarded to the winner of every Scotland vs Wales match, was established in his honour in 2018.
Tributes for Weir have been pouring in all evening, including from Scotland First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, and the Prince and Princess of Wales, who said in a statement: "Doddie Weir was a true hero – we are so sad to hear of his passing.
"His immense talent on the pitch as well as his tireless efforts to raise awareness of MND were an inspiration. Our thoughts are with all those who loved him. He will be hugely missed across the entire rugby world. W&C."
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