Rob Burrow makes history in CBeebies Bedtime Story by reading a book with a computer controlled by the eyes

By Harry Last updated Dec 1, 2022

Rob Burrow has made history on CBeebies Bedtime Story by being the first person to read a book using a computer controlled by the eyes.

The 40-year-old former Leeds Rhinos player, who was diagnosed with motor neuron disease in 2019, has filmed a special episode of the BBC series to mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

The father of three chose Tom Percival’s Tilda Tries Again to read for his television special, which airs at 6:50 p.m. on December 3.

Rob’s innovative computer has been able to recreate the rugby star’s voice, allowing him to read the story in his Yorkshire accent.

Rob Burrow, 40, appeared in the CBeebies Bedtime story using eye-controlled technology.

The rugby hero says he loved reading with his family before he lost the ability to speak and even had his wife. Lindsey and two of his children Maya, seven, and Jackson, three, accompany him to the CBeebies studio.

Helping their father with the filming, Maya and Jackson watched from the TV gallery and yelled “action” as the cameras began to roll.

The story Rob has chosen is about a young woman who finds her world has been turned “upside down” and things that were once easy suddenly become an incredible challenge.

The story explores how Tilda can discover a new way to deal with her problems and find her inner self-worth.

Rob said: ‘I loved reading to my own children as part of their bedtime routine. I was so excited and honored to have the opportunity to read a CBeebies Bedtime Story.

The father of three read Tom Percival’s Tilda Tries Again for his next episode

Rob pictured with his wife Lindsey and their children Macy, 10, Maya, seven, and Jackson, three

WHAT IS MOTOR NEURON DISEASE?

Motor neuron disease is a rare condition that mainly affects people in their 60s and 70s, but it can affect adults of all ages.

It is caused by a problem with brain and nerve cells called motor neurons. These cells gradually stop working over time. It is not known why this happens.

Having a close relative with motor neurone disease, or a related condition called frontotemporal dementia, can sometimes mean you’re more likely to have it. But it does not run in families in most cases.

Early symptoms may include ankle or leg weakness, such as difficulty climbing stairs; slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, weak grip, and gradual weight loss.

If you have these symptoms, you should see a GP. They will consider other possible conditions and may refer you to a specialist called a neurologist if necessary.

If a close relative has motor neurone disease or frontotemporal dementia and you are concerned that they may be at risk for it, they may refer you to a genetic counselor to discuss your risk and any tests that may be done.

Font: NHS UK

‘Reading and literacy are very important. No matter what your disability, reading is accessible to everyone. Anyone can enjoy reading and develop a love for books and bedtime stories, just like me and my family.’

Prior to his heartbreaking diagnosis, Rob spent his entire sporting career at Leeds making 492 appearances. He also won 15 caps for England and five for Great Britain.

Earlier this year, Rob filmed a BBC2 documentary about his wasting disease, likening it to being a “prisoner in your own body”.

Speaking of his wife, Rob said it was hard to see Lindsey take on so much responsibility since her diagnosis.

He said: ‘I was such a hands-on father. You hate to see your wife with the burden of doing it alone.

“I think I would have caved if it was me, but Lindsey has unwavering patience with everyone.”

Meanwhile, the dedicated mother and wife never complained about the situation, saying, “Sometimes it’s like there aren’t enough hours in the day, but it’s all good.”

In a particularly emotional moment, Lindsey opened up about how her husband had previously encouraged her to find love again after he left, but admitted she doesn’t think it will happen.

She said: ‘There was never anyone else for me, to be honest.

“Just because Rob was Rob and he treated me like a princess and there was never anyone else I was going to marry, so I think probably for me from the start…it’s a cliché, isn’t it? Love at first view but that’s true No one can take Rob’s place.

Writing for The Mail on Sunday last year, the ruby legend described how heartbreaking it was to no longer be able to physically speak to her children.

He wrote: ‘I will never kick a ball with Jackson. I can’t even reach out and touch it, let alone jump from my perch, throw it over my shoulder, and plunge headlong into the garden. And I can’t even babble, let alone tell him that I love him.

Rob Burrow played for Leeds for a total of 16 years. In the photo in the field before his diagnosis.

‘I try to live in the present as much as possible. Savor every moment. But I can’t help but look back. Sometimes, I imagine myself as he was, that speedy kid with the wicked swerve and swerve.

‘I find it hard to comprehend that my body was ever capable of doing those things. The same body that struggles to get off the couch, eat or send a text.’

During his 16-year career, Rob has won the Challenge Cup in 2014 and 2015, as well as three World Club Challenges and three League Leaders Shields.