Steph Houghton, one of the BBC's pundits for the ongoing World Cup, continues to support her husband Stephen Darby as he battles motor neurone disease (MND). The former Liverpool footballer was diagnosed with the life-limiting condition in September 2018, just three months after marrying Houghton.
A Harrowing Struggle
Houghton, who previously captained the England Women's team, opened up to ITV in March 2025 about the devastating impact of MND on their lives. Darby, now 36, first noticed weakness in his arms before receiving the diagnosis. For over six years, he has been living with the illness that gradually attacks the brain and nervous system, and his condition has worsened over time.
While there is no cure for MND, treatments can help manage its effects. According to the MND Association, up to 5,000 adults in the UK may be living with the condition at any given time.
Desperation for a Cure
Houghton expressed the family's urgent need for a cure: "We are so desperate for that cure, we are so desperate for money to be put into research to allow families to have that little bit of hope." Reflecting on the toll it has taken, she added: "How do you ever describe the changes that we've had as a family? It's so hard to see your husband who had so much promise in his football career. To see that being taken away from him, but also the simple tasks that we take for granted - being able to walk, being able to have food, being able to get up the stairs. I'm not going to lie and I'm not going to sit here and pretend that I have the best days, because I don't."
Hope for the Future
Despite the daily challenges, Houghton said she and Darby remain optimistic about starting a family. In the ITV interview, she stated: "It was always a dream of ours to be parents one day and that's still possible. It's something that we'll always continue to speak about. I love him to absolute bits, I know he's as strong as ever. He's willing to fight this for as long as possible."
Public Awareness and Fundraising
Darby has been open about his condition. In December 2023, he revealed on Instagram the increased risk of severe injuries due to his inability to cushion falls with his hands or arms, a result of muscle deterioration. In 2024, he and fellow former footballer Marcus Stewart, who also has MND, raised £130,000 by completing a 178-mile charity march from Anfield to Valley Parade, the home of Bradford City.
Houghton, who retired from football in 2024 after a distinguished spell with Manchester City Women, continues to balance her broadcasting career with caring for her husband. Their story highlights the urgent need for research and support for those affected by MND.
