Former footballer Stephen Darby and ex-England captain Steph Houghton discuss the profound impact of Darby’s MND diagnosis on their lives in the award-winning podcast ‘Rob Burrow Seven, Meets…’
- Stephen Darby speaks about encouraging his family to cherish the present amidst his MND battle.
- Steph Houghton reflects on her desire to spend more time with family after retiring from professional football.
- The couple shares their journey from Darby’s initial symptoms to his MND diagnosis and their efforts to maintain normalcy.
- Houghton outlines her plans for punditry and the couple’s hopes of starting a family.
Former Liverpool and Bradford City footballer Stephen Darby, diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) in 2018, emphasises the importance of enjoying the present. On the podcast ‘Rob Burrow Seven, Meets…’, he encourages his family to ‘not waste time’ and to ‘enjoy what we have now.’
Steph Houghton, Darby’s wife and former England and Manchester City captain, explains her retirement decision was motivated by a desire to spend more time with her family. The former player, who left the game as Manchester City’s most decorated player, discusses her wish to have children and her post-retirement plans, including continuing with punditry on various platforms such as Match of the Day and BBC Radio 5 Live.
The podcast sees the couple recounting the early stages of Darby’s illness. He describes his first symptoms, including weakness in his right arm and hand, and the 21-month journey to his diagnosis while he was still actively playing football. Houghton reflects on her initial unfamiliarity with MND, her feelings of helplessness, and her admiration for her husband’s resilience throughout the ordeal.
Reflecting on Rob Burrow, who also battled MND until his passing in June at 41, Darby praises Burrow and his wife Lindsey for their positive approach to the diagnosis. He expresses his aspiration to continue contributing to the fight against MND, similar to Burrow’s efforts, including completing a 178-mile march to raise awareness and support for MND patients.
In a touching segment, Houghton and Darby recount their relationship, describing their first meeting and subsequent marriage in 2018, just months before Darby’s diagnosis. Despite the challenges, they strive to maintain a normal life, cherishing their moments together and making plans for the future.
Stephen Darby and Steph Houghton’s candid discussion on the podcast highlights their strength and commitment to raising awareness about MND while balancing personal and professional aspirations.
