Doddie sets up trust to aid MND battle
FORMER Scotland rugby star Doddie Weir has established a trust to support his fight with motor neurone disease.
The 47-year-old announced his diagnosis in June to raise awareness of the condition, pledging to devote his time to helping research and supporting fellow sufferers.
The Doddie Weir’5 Discretionary Trust – which makes use of his rugby shirt number – will provide practical help to Doddie and his family.
A foundation, My Name’5 Doddie, is to be set up in the next few months to raise funds for research into MND and to provide grants to people living with the condition.
Doddie attended the launch of the trust in Melrose in the Borders, where he began his career, before Edinburgh’s pre-season friendly against Newcastle Falcons.
He said: “Since I made public my diagnosis, the response we have received from the rugby fraternity and the general public has been overwhelming.
“We have been amazed at the messages of support sent to us by well-wishers and the kindness shown by hundreds of people.
“I would personally like to thank everyone as it has been greatly appreciated by the entire family.”
Edinburgh-born Doddie’s former team-mate Finlay Calder is one of the trustees.
He said: “We believe the trust can serve as a way of giving the Weir family and other sufferers the practical help they need while raising the profile of this degenerative condition.
“Hopefully, we can offer practical help to make sure Doddie has the independence to live his life as fully as possible.”