The inspirational Rob Burrow is to be given an MBE in the New Year's honours.
Burrow, a Leeds Rhinos legend, was diagnosed with motor neurone disease 12 months ago and his condition has deteriorated to the point he can no longer talk and now requires a wheelchair.
But the 38-year-old has not only fought against the disease, he has gone above and beyond to raise awareness in the hope that more research can be done and a cure can one day be found.
As per The Mirror, Burrow's immense bravery will not be commemorated in the next batch of honours from the Queen.
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A source told the paper: "Rob's story has really touched the hearts of everyone. His incredible will to raise money despite battling MND is nothing short of astonishing.
"He has refused to let the illness take over his life - instead showing the same strength that he always showed as a player."
Standing at just 5 ft 5, Burrow was by far the smallest player in rugby league but went on to win eight Grand finals and two Challenge Cups in a wonderful career.
His former colleague and best mate Kevin Sinfield joined Rob's efforts to shed light on the degenerative nerve-affecting condition and ran seven marathons in seven days.
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Completing each marathon under four hours, the former Leeds Rhinos captain raised over £2 million for the Motor Neurone Disease Association and had Rob cheering him on for the almighty challenge.
"We've all been so proud wearing this vest for our good mate Rob Burrow and his family but also the MND community," the 40-year-old said.
"The MND association do so many good things and the sooner we can get some advances for MND, the better for everybody."
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