Scottish rugby legend and valiant charity campaigner, Doddie Weir, has sadly passed away today, November 26.
The former international has died at the age of 52 after fighting a long and brave battle with motor neurone disease.
Weir announced that he was diagnosed with MND in June 2017 and dedicated the rest of his life to raising millions through his My Name’5 Doddie Foundation.
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The Scottish lock was capped 61 times between 1990 and 2000 and was given an OBE in 2019 for his services to rugby, MND research and the Borders community.
Kathy Weir, Doddie’s wife, released a statement on behalf of the family, she said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our beloved husband and father, Doddie.
“Doddie was an inspirational force of nature. His unending energy and drive, and his strength of character powered him through his rugby and business careers and, we believe, enabled him to fight the effects of MND (Motor Neurone Disease) for so many years.
“Doddie put the same energy and even more love and fun into our lives together: he was a true family man. Whether working together on the farm, on holiday, or celebrating occasions with wider family and friends. Doddie was always in the thick of it. We are lucky to have shared our lives with him and we cherish all those memories: his love and warmth, his support and advice, his quick wit, and his terrible jokes. It is difficult to put into worlds how much we will miss him.
“MND took so much from Doddie, but never his spirit and determination. He battled MND so bravely, and whilst his own battle may be over, his fight continues through his foundation, until a cure is found for all those with this devastating disease.
“Hamish, Angus and Ben and I would like to thank everyone for your support and for respecting our privacy at this difficult time."
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