David ‘Syd’ Lawrence, the former England and Gloucestershire fast bowler, has always been known for his resilience, determination, and ability to overcome challenges. But now, at the age of 60, Lawrence faces his toughest opponent yet—motor neurone disease (MND), a cruel and relentless degenerative illness that affects the brain and nerves. Despite the grim diagnosis, Lawrence remains undeterred, vowing to face the disease head-on, with a spirit as fierce as ever.
Lawrence’s battle began earlier this year when he was diagnosed with MND after a slow recovery from knee replacement surgery. By Christmas of 2023, the former cricketer was struggling to walk. Then, after being admitted to the hospital for three months in March 2024, he received the life-altering news in June.
“I got the dreadful news in June that I had the disease, which is a tough one,” Lawrence revealed in an emotional interview on BBC Breakfast. “If you’ve been a big, strong man all your life, and this comes and hits you, it’s a tough one to take. Really tough. I’ve never relied on anybody to do anything for me. I always wanted to do things for people, and now I have to rely on people to do things for me.”
For Lawrence, who had always prided himself on his independence, the shift to needing daily care has been an enormous adjustment. He now requires assistance for even the most basic tasks, such as dressing and showering. Despite these challenges, he has learned to put his ego aside and accept the help he needs.
One of the most striking aspects of Lawrence’s journey is his candidness about death. When asked if he was afraid to die, Lawrence’s response was remarkably clear-eyed and composed.
“Am I scared to die? No,” he stated. “Most people are scared of not knowing, but I know how I am going to die. You can’t look too much into the future—that will scare you. We are all going to die. I just know how I am going to die. I’m not scared.”
It’s a perspective that many would find difficult to embrace, but Lawrence’s attitude is one of acceptance. He chooses to live in the moment, rather than dwelling on the unknown future. “You have demons in your head,” he said, “but I choose to live life. That’s the only option.”
Lawrence’s fight against MND has been deeply influenced by other high-profile athletes who have faced the disease, such as rugby league legend Rob Burrow and Scottish rugby union player Doddie Weir. Burrow, who passed away earlier this year, and Weir, who died in November 2022 after a six-year battle with MND, have become icons in the fight against the disease.
“I was aware of MND through Kevin Sinfield and Rob Burrow, with all their publicity and high-profile efforts,” Lawrence explained. “Did I ever think that would be me? No, never.”
Lawrence has also drawn strength from his friend and former teammate Kevin Sinfield, who has raised over £15 million for MND charities alongside Burrow. Sinfield has been a great source of support, even arranging for Lawrence and his wife to speak with Rob Burrow’s wife, Lindsey, to offer guidance and understanding. “That was really good of him,” Lawrence said. “He is a remarkable human being for what he has done.”
In the spirit of Burrow and Sinfield’s efforts, Lawrence is planning his own fundraising events to help raise money for MND charities. He believes that sports stars like himself can play a vital role in raising awareness and giving a voice to those suffering from the disease who may not have the same platform.
“We have to give a voice to other people who are not high profile and are struggling,” Lawrence said. “If you can help one person to get through it, that’s great.”
For Lawrence, it’s not just about his own battle with MND—it’s about helping others facing the same challenges, particularly those who don’t have the same resources or public recognition.
As a former professional athlete, Lawrence is no stranger to overcoming obstacles. He spent 16 years with Gloucestershire, taking 625 wickets in 280 matches and playing five Test matches for England. Now, those same qualities that made him successful on the field are helping him face this new and daunting challenge.
“Sportsmen and women have a strong attitude. We overcome obstacles in our life, have different goals,” he reflected. “This is the toughest one, but we will find a way to get through it. We are fighters, and we have big hearts and big spirits. We may not win the fight, but we are up for the fight.”
David ‘Syd’ Lawrence’s story is one of courage, resilience, and unwavering determination. While his days of bowling fast deliveries for England and Gloucestershire may be behind him, his battle against MND has revealed a new kind of strength—one that will undoubtedly inspire many. As he faces the uncertainty of the future, Lawrence does so with the heart of a champion, determined to live life fully and fight for others along the way.
In his own words, “We are up for the fight.”
