Former England rugby captain and 2003 World Cup winner, Lewis Moody, has bravely announced his diagnosis of Motor Neurone Disease (MND). The 47-year-old shared the news, describing it as a "huge shock" to himself and his family, but remains focused on staying positive.
What is Motor Neurone Disease?
MND is a progressive condition that affects the brain and nerves. It causes weakness, muscle wasting, and can significantly impact a person's ability to move, talk, and breathe. As the MND Association highlights, the disease can progress rapidly, with a third of people dying within a year and over half within two years of diagnosis.
Moody's Experience
Moody noticed initial weakness in his shoulder while training. After physiotherapy failed to improve the issue, scans revealed nerve damage in his brain and spinal cord caused by MND. Despite the diagnosis, Moody says he feels "well in myself" and his symptoms are currently minor, including some muscle wasting in his hand and shoulder. He remains capable of doing anything and everything and hopes this will continue for as long as possible.
“There’s something about looking the future in the face and not wanting to really process that at the minute,” Moody told the BBC. He acknowledged the difficulty in accepting the implications of the diagnosis for his future and his family.
Following in the Footsteps of Legends
Moody's diagnosis comes after fellow rugby players Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow tragically succumbed to the disease in recent years. Their stories have raised significant awareness and spurred fundraising efforts to combat MND.
Since retiring from rugby in 2012, Moody and his wife, Annie, have been dedicated to fundraising for The Lewis Moody Foundation, which supports those affected by brain tumours. He plans to continue this work and also create an opportunity to support a charity closer to his current situation, focusing on MND research and support.
The rugby community and beyond have rallied around Moody, offering support and well wishes during this challenging time. His courage in sharing his diagnosis will undoubtedly raise further awareness and inspire continued efforts to find a cure for MND.
We wish Lewis Moody and his family all the best as he faces this challenge with strength and positivity.