Former England rugby union captain Lewis Moody has disclosed that he has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND). At 47 years old, he acknowledges that he is not yet prepared to fully comprehend the implications of the diagnosis, a disease that claimed the lives of fellow rugby players Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow.
Expressing his sentiments to the BBC, Moody admitted, “There’s something about looking the future in the face and not wanting to really process that at the minute. It’s not that I don’t understand where it’s going. We understand that. But there is absolutely a reluctance to look the future in the face for now.”
As a member of England’s renowned 2003 World Cup-winning team, which featured stars like Jonny Wilkinson, Matt Dawson, Jason Robinson, and Martin Johnson, Moody enjoyed a successful career. He also achieved numerous domestic and European triumphs with Leicester.
However, he now confronts the most significant battle of his life after noticing initial weakness in his shoulder during a gym session. Despite undergoing physiotherapy, the issue persisted, leading to scans uncovering nerve damage in his brain and spinal cord caused by MND.
“I don’t feel ill. I don’t feel unwell. My symptoms are very minor. I have a bit of muscle wasting in the hand and the shoulder,” Moody expressed, indicating his current physical state.
Speaking alongside his wife, Annie, Moody shared his concerns for his family, particularly his sons Ethan and Dylan. Informing his sons about his condition was described as the most challenging moment, with Moody emphasizing the emotional turmoil it induced.
Moody had planned to participate in a charity rugby match organized by Burrow and Ed Slater, another rugby player living with MND, but was sidelined due to a knee injury. While Burrow passed away in June 2024, Slater now relies on a wheelchair and a computer for communication.
Despite the recent diagnosis, Moody remains determined to face the challenges ahead, reflecting on the adjustments required for the future. He expressed a sense of hesitance in reaching out to others in similar situations but acknowledged the importance of seeking support in due time.
Having represented England in 71 matches over ten years, Moody played a crucial role in securing three Six Nations championships and the 2003 World Cup victory. His illustrious club career included multiple Premiership titles with Leicester and two European Cup triumphs before concluding his playing days at Bath.