Former England rugby union captain Lewis Moody has shared that he has received a diagnosis of motor neurone disease (MND). The 47-year-old expressed that he is not prepared to fully comprehend the implications of the diagnosis yet, acknowledging the impact the disease had on fellow rugby players Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow.
Moody, a key member of the iconic 2003 World Cup-winning squad for England, alongside renowned players like Jonny Wilkinson and Jason Robinson, is now confronting the toughest challenge of his life. His health concerns began when he noticed weakness in his shoulder during a gym session. Despite undergoing physiotherapy, scans later revealed nerve damage related to MND in his brain and spinal cord.
The former rugby star admitted to feeling emotionally overwhelmed by the MND diagnosis, despite not experiencing significant physical symptoms. Moody emphasized his focus on his family, particularly his sons Ethan and Dylan, aged 15 and 17, expressing his concern for the impact his condition may have on his loved ones.
Moody, who was set to participate in a charity rugby match organized by Rob Burrow and Ed Slater last year but was sidelined due to a knee injury, faces uncertainties about his future activity levels and lifestyle. Reflecting on the recent diagnosis, Moody acknowledged feeling hesitant to seek support from others in a similar position, like Ed Slater, but expressed his intention to do so when he feels ready.
Throughout his illustrious rugby career, Moody represented England in 71 matches, contributing to multiple Six Nations victories and the 2003 World Cup triumph. He also achieved success at the club level, winning domestic and European titles with Leicester and Bath.
As Lewis Moody embarks on this challenging journey, the rugby community stands in solidarity with him, acknowledging his immense contributions to the sport and offering support during this difficult time.
