Dunbar Grammar welcomed Doddie Weir

Scottish rugby legend and Motor Neurone Disease (MND) campaigner Doddie Weir recently visited Dunbar Grammar to receive a cheque from the school’s Charity Committee for £1102.52 for his foundation, My Name’5 Doddie. The school community raised funds through a dress down day, bake sales and donations from the Rugby Club.

Doddie shared his experiences of living with MND at a special assembly, held in the school’s new social hub. He spoke of the work that his foundation is doing to raise funds for research into this incurable disease, including gene therapy, and also to support people living with MND.

Pupils also had the opportunity to put their own questions to Doddie in a Q&A session, covering his rugby career, Six Nations predictions and his positive attitude in the face of his devastating diagnosis. Doddie explained that it is the same determination that drove his rugby career that is fuelling his charity work and his desire to further research. He encouraged pupils to make the most of all opportunities and experiences offered to them and discussed the benefits of sport for health, wellbeing and being part of a supportive community.

Doddie was invited by S1 pupil Holly Berry-Shotton, a member of the school’s active Charities Committee. Holly’s Grandad lives with MND and she, along with her fellow committee members, were keen to raise awareness as well as money for this cause.

Following a discussion with her parents, Holly emailed My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. Doddie explained it was this personal approach that led to his visit: “This is the first time I have gone to school after receiving an email from a pupil. Holly’s message spoke about her Grandad and the work Dunbar Grammar pupils were doing to raise awareness and funds. I’m really grateful to her and the school for inviting me and for all that they’ve done,” he said.

Doddie Weir was awarded an OBE in the Queen’s 2019 New Years Honours List for services to rugby, Motor Neurone Disease research and the Scottish Borders community.