Emotional Doddie Weir's powerful final message continues to inspire all who hear it
Rugby NewsTuesday, 10 September 2024 at 09:53
Doddie Weir, a towering figure both on and off the rugby pitch, was known for his remarkable playing career and his courageous battle with motor neurone disease (MND), which he fought until his passing in 2022 at the age of 52.
The former Scotland international, capped 61 times, became a driving force in raising awareness and funding for MND research following his diagnosis in 2016.
A charismatic presence, famous for his colourful suits and infectious humour, Weir's final message, included in his Order of Service, reflected his enduring optimism: "I hope you’ve had a bit of a laugh, maybe a wee cry, and taken on some of my positive thinking."
He added with a smile: "When life gives you lemons, pop them into a large G&T. I have my own gin now, you know… Cheers!"
Weir’s philosophy on life was clear: "Whatever your situation, make the most of each and every day. Be nice to people, and laugh as much as possible."
He is survived by his wife Kathy and sons Hamish, Angus and Ben, who are all involved in the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. It was founded by Weir and has helped raise millions for research.
Fans just now discover legend Doddie Weir’s real name, he always used nickname
The lock was given an OBE in 2019 for services to rugby, to MND research and to the Borders community.
However, following a number of emotional tributes, many supporters are only now realising that his legal name isn't really Doddie at all.
A number of articles from non-rugby related publications have used his full name, which is actually 'George Wilson Weir'
Dod or Doddie is a traditional Scottish nickname, usually a diminutive or tee-name for "George".
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#2. Lawrence is really Lorenzo Dallaglio
#3. Manu is really Manusamoa Tuilagi
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#4. Conor is really Gerard Murray
#5. Richie is really Richard McCaw
#6. Scott is really Leon Quinnell
#7. Iain is really William Henderson
#8. Sonny Bill WIlliams is Sonny William Williams
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#9. Will is really Sanchez William Genia
#10. Mako is really Makovina Wanangarua I Whanga Nui-Atara Vunipola
Mako Vunipola of England during the Autumn Nations Cup match between England and Ireland at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on November 21 2020. - PHOTO: Phil Mingo/PPAUK
#11. Francois is really Jacobus Pienaar
#12. Maro is really Oghenemaro Miles Itoje
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#13. Taulupe is really Tangaki Faletau
Taulupe Faletau during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Match between Bath Rugby and Saracens at the Recreation Ground on 17 Oct. Photo: Steve Haag/PPAUK
#14. Bakkies is really John Philip Botha
#15. Billy is really Viliami Vunipola
Billy Vunipola of Saracens on the break during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Final Match between Leicester Tigers and Saracens at Twickenham Stadium on 18 June 2022. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK
#16. Rassie is Johan Erasmus
#17. Rob Andrew is Christopher Andrew
#18. Bundee is really Fua Leiofi Bundellu Aki
Elliot Daly of England tackles Bundee Aki of Ireland during the six Nations Championship match, between England and Ireland at Twickenham Stadium, London , UK, on the 17th March 2017. (Photo:Dean Lancaster/PPAUK)
#19. Mils is really Junior Malili Muliaina
#20. Joe is really Ratu Josateki Tuivanuavou Waqanivalu Cokanasiga
Joe Cokanasiga of England waves in the direction of the crowd following the Guinness Six Nations Round Four match between England and Italy at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on the 9th March 2019. Photo: James Fearn/PPAUK.
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