Hey, what’s up?

I visited York for the third time, and once again, I found myself stepping into a bookshop. This time, I noticed how many small, independent bookshops York holds, yet I usually go to Waterstones, lured by the familiar comfort of collecting points with every purchase. But then I saw it—a book titled With You Every Step, its cover adorned with a drawing of two children standing outside a place called The Little Apple Bookshop. Something about it held me still. Without thinking, I stepped inside and asked the cashier where I could find the book. He handed it to me, and without hesitation, I paid and left.

On my way back from York to Derby, I decided to open the book. It was thinner than I had expected, and as I traced my fingers over the cover, I noticed a small sticker: With every copy sold, 50p will be donated to the MND Association and Leeds Hospital Charity. Something about that detail made me pause. Out of curiosity, I searched for the authors and learned that Rob Burrow had once been a professional rugby player before being diagnosed with motor neurone disease. His friend, Kevin Sinfield, had stood by him throughout his battle, offering unwavering support. But then I read the words I hadn’t been prepared for—Rob Burrow had passed away. A strange heaviness settled over me. I hadn’t even started the book, yet already, it carried the weight of something lost.

For those unfamiliar with motor neurone disease (MND), it is a devastating condition that causes the muscles to gradually waste away. While multiple factors have been proposed as potential causes, genetic mutations are believed to play a significant role. Tragically, there is still no cure. Research continues in the hope of finding effective treatments, but for now, care remains purely supportive. It is a cruel and relentless disease, not only for the person diagnosed but also for their loved ones, who must bear witness to its slow, inevitable progression. Over time, the body loses its ability to function—until even the most fundamental acts of living become impossible. Death is not sudden; it arrives in fragments, piece by piece, as the body surrenders to what it can no longer fight.

This book offers a glimpse into Rob Burrow’s life and the unwavering support of his friend, Kevin Sinfield, who has dedicated himself to raising awareness about MND. Scattered throughout its pages are photographs and quotes about friendship—simple yet profound reminders of the bond they shared. I found them particularly moving, knowing how painful it must have been for Kevin to watch his closest friend’s life slowly slip away. It made me reflect on my own friendships, on how easy it is to take them for granted.

I won’t be sharing any quotes or pictures from the book, but I do encourage you to read it and, if you can, support the MND Association. Every contribution brings us a step closer to finding a cure for this cruel disease.

That’s all for this post—see you in the next one.