By Tim Parsons-
Lewis Moody, the former England flanker and 2003 World Cup winner, announced the profoundly difficult news of his Motor Neurone Disease diagnosis on Monday.
Lewis Moody of England during the Rugby World Cup 2003 Quarter-Final. Pic: The Sun
The 47-year-old, nicknamed “Mad Dog” for his ferocious playing style, shared a heartfelt statement that described the diagnosis as an “incredibly hard” shock for himself and his family.
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The sporting icon’s battle with this debilitating condition now begins, putting him in the same unfortunate company as rugby league hero Rob Burrow, who sadly succumbed to the illness earlier this year. The condition progressively damages the nervous system, leading to muscle weakness and wasting.
Moody’s diagnosis follows an unsettling period where he noticed persistent weakness in his shoulder while training in the gym. Further medical investigations revealed the shocking truth behind his physical struggles. Initial physiotherapy sessions failed to resolve the issue, and subsequent scans tragically confirmed nerve damage in his brain and spinal cord caused by the rare disease.
Moody revealed the health update in an interview. Pic jamie McPhilimey. 17.09.19.
Despite the devastating nature of a Motor Neurone Disease diagnosis, Lewis Moody remains remarkably upbeat about his current state. He told the BBC that his symptoms are currently minor, primarily involving some muscle wasting in his hand and shoulder.
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Speaking with immense fortitude, he stated he feels “fit and well in myself and I’m focused on staying positive, living life and dealing with the changes I will experience as they come.”
An emotional Moody in an interview about his MND. Credit: BBC
The world of rugby has been quick to rally around the popular former captain. Lewis Moody played a crucial role in England’s World Cup victory in Australia, winning 71 caps for his country and captaining the team 12 times. His former teammates at Leicester Tigers, Geordan Murphy and Leon Lloyd, have already set up an online fundraiser to provide practical and emotional support for Lewis Moody, his wife Annie, and their two sons.
The Rugby Football Union (RFU) also expressed their deep sorrow, affirming that the entire rugby community stands with them. The unfortunate prevalence of Motor Neurone Disease among former rugby players has spurred significant fundraising efforts and research, highlighting an ongoing conversation about the long-term health risks associated with a career in professional rugby.
Moody’s own established charity, The Lewis Moody Foundation, which focuses on brain tumour research, will now also look to support a charity aligned with his current situation, ensuring the fight against Motor Neurone Disease gains another formidable champion.
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