Lewis Moody, former England captain, reveals ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) diagnosis

Lewis Moody, Rugby World Cup Winner, Reveals Motor Neurone Disease Diagnosis

Former English rugby player and World Cup champion Lewis Moody has been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Motor Neuron Disease (MND). Moody, 47, shared the news in an interview, two weeks after receiving the diagnosis of this degenerative disease that affects the muscles.

There’s something about looking at the future head-on and not really wanting to process it at this moment. It’s not that I don’t understand where it’s going. We understand it. But there’s absolutely a reluctance to look at the future head-on for now.

Lewis Moody

Moody was a key player in England’s 2003 triumph and amassed 71 appearances between 2001 and 2011. He played in all seven World Cup matches in Australia, and in the final against the hosts, he won the line-out that led to Jonny Wilkinson’s winning drop goal. Furthermore, he participated with the British and Irish Lions in 2005 and at a national level, he won seven Premiership titles with the Leicester Tigers and two Heineken Cups, ending his career at Bath. During his career, Moody stood out as a relentless flanker, known for his incredible work rate and considered a true team player. He was a ferocious tackler, an exceptional operator in the ruck area and was recognized as one of the best players to have graced this sport in the professional era.

The MND is a degenerative neurological condition that generally shortens life. The specific symptoms and the speed at which muscle weakness develops can vary between individuals. Currently, there is no cure. Moody revealed that he noticed the first symptoms after feeling weakness in his shoulder while at the gym. He received physiotherapy, but then tests showed nerve damage to his brain and spinal cord due to MND. Former rugby players Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow passed away from this disease in recent years.

They give you this diagnosis of MND and rightly we are excited, but it’s so strange because I feel like nothing is wrong. I don’t feel sick. I don’t feel bad. My symptoms are very mild. I have a little muscle wasting in my hand and shoulder. I’m still able to do anything and everything. And I hope that continues for as long as possible.

Lewis Moody

Moody also expressed his gratitude for the support of the rugby community and his family. In a social media post, Moody indicated that, although the diagnosis was a “shock”, he is receiving great support from his family and medical professionals. He added that he was “truly grateful to those who, at the time, helped advance research to support others, like me, who live with this disease”. Moody retired from international rugby in 2011 and left the professional game a year later.

The RFU (Rugby Football Union) has stated that it will support Moody and his family. Bill Sweeney, RFU Chief Executive, issued a statement: “We are deeply saddened and distressed to learn that Lewis Moody has been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease. Lewis represented England, the British and Irish Lions and his clubs Leicester Tigers and Bath Rugby with brilliance and distinction: one of the toughest and bravest players ever to wear the back row jersey in the game, earning the respect and admiration of teammates, opponents and supporters around the world. His contribution to rugby, both on and off the field, reflects the best of our sport’s values. Our thoughts are with Lewis and his family and friends at this difficult time as they face this diagnosis and I know the entire rugby community is with them and will support them.” Moody’s former clubs also offered their support through separate statements. Andrea Pinchin, Leicester Tigers CEO, commented: “The figures, trophies and awards tell you how incredible Lewis was as a player, but that’s only half the story. As an individual, his commitment to his club along with his warmth and passion shone through, which made him loved by teammates, staff and supporters alike. Always looking to help others, Lewis along with Annie have worked tirelessly through the Lewis Moody Foundation, supporting brain tumor research and helping affected families. I know that everyone connected with the club will want to convey their best wishes and support to Lewis and his family in any way they can.” Tarquin McDonald, Chief Executive of Bath Rugby, stated: “This is heartbreaking news and our thoughts and best wishes are with Lewis, his immediate family and his wider circle of friends and loved ones. Lewis is, and always will be, part of the Bath Rugby family as a former player who has put down roots in the local community, and a true ambassador for the sport. His charitable work through his foundation, dedicated to raising awareness and funds to improve the lives of those who need help and support, is inspiring. This is a devastating illness and we stand together as a club to offer all our support to Lewis, his family and friends.”