DODDIE’S FEAR

Rugby legend Weir warns of virus risks and calls for unity

RUGBY legend Doddie Weir has admitted the spreading threat of coronavirus would leave him in a ‘very bad place’ if infected.

Weir, who has raised millions for MND research since being diagnosed with the crippling disease over three years ago, is effectively in isolation on the family farm.

In his Sunday Telegraph column, Weir said being put on a ventilator would leave him permanently unable to breathe without assistance.

The Scotland great, whose foundation has

not only raised huge sums of money but put the battle to cure MND firmly in the spotlight, revealed: ‘My medical team spelt out the risks in black and white. I was told if I do get the virus, the likelihood is that I will end up on a lung ventilator and never get off it. ‘With MND, once you stop using a muscle, you basically never get it back. So if you rely on a ventilator to breathe, you will never regain the strength to breathe for yourself again. And from there, you are in a very bad place. ‘In another life, I think I could have been quite blasé about the coronavirus. It’s just like the flu, why should that stop me from going to the pub? Why should I stop living my life? ‘Well, now I know just how severe the consequences are of this disease spreading through society.’ Weir (right) said lockdown for him and his family could last months — but stressed how lucky they were to have the farm, noting: ‘I have access to fresh air and a safe place to stretch my legs.’

Admitting that he was missing swimming and chiropractor sessions aimed at maintaining his health, Weir pointed out: ‘If I catch the virus, there would be no health for those guys to look after.’ Weir is more concerned by the fact that research into MND is being put on hold amid the global crisis. But he’s determined that everyone plays their part in shutting down the pandemic, saying: ‘We all have a responsibility to do the right thing. ‘For people like myself who are vulnerable, and those over 70, the choice might be made for them to stay indoors. ‘We understand the severity that if we get this thing, then we are in bother. ‘Younger people may think they are invincible but they are just as responsible for the spread of the disease. ‘Going to the pub might have made no difference to you, but it could have led to many more people getting the virus. ‘Like with a rugby team, we can only win this fight if we work as a collective.’