Lewis Moody, Rugby World Cup Winner, Reveals ALS Diagnosis
Former England rugby player Lewis Moody, a World Cup champion, has been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a degenerative disease of the nervous system.
Moody, 47, shared the news in an interview, two weeks after receiving the diagnosis of this disease that causes progressive muscle weakness.
There’s something about looking the future in the face and not really wanting to process that at the moment. It’s not that I don’t understand where it’s going. We understand it. But there’s absolutely a reluctance to look the future in the face for now.
Lewis Moody
Moody was a key figure in England’s triumph in 2003 and amassed 71 international matches between 2001 and 2011. He played in all seven matches that led England to win the World Cup in Australia and, in the final against the host country, won the line-out that led to Jonny Wilkinson’s winning drop goal.In addition, he participated in tours with the British and Irish Lions in 2005. At the national level, he won seven Premiership titles with the Leicester Tigers and two Heineken Cups, ending his career at Bath.
During his playing days, Moody was known for his dedication and tireless work, being considered a team player par excellence. He was a fierce tackler, excelling in the ruck area and considered one of the best players in the professional era.
ALS is a degenerative neurological condition that generally shortens life. Symptoms and the speed at which muscle weakness develops can vary between individuals. Currently, there is no cure.
Moody reported that he noticed the first symptoms after feeling weakness in his shoulder while at the gym. After physiotherapy, scans revealed damage to the nerves in his brain and spinal cord due to ALS. Former rugby players Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow passed away from this disease in recent years.
They give you this ALS diagnosis and we are quite excited about it, but it’s so strange because I feel like nothing is happening. 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 am 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 he has received and the importance of the rugby community.
In a social media post, Moody noted that, although the diagnosis was a “shock”, he is receiving good support from his family and medical professionals. He added that he is “truly grateful to those who, at the time, helped advance research to support others, like me, who live with this disease”.The RFU (Rugby Football Union) has announced its support for Moody and his family.
Bill Sweeney, CEO of the RFU, stated: “We are deeply saddened and distressed to learn that Lewis Moody has been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.
“Lewis represented England, the British and Irish Lions, and his clubs Leicester Tigers and Bath Rugby with brilliance and distinction, being one of the toughest and bravest players to have worn the third-row jersey in this sport, earning the respect and admiration of teammates, opponents, and supporters from 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 come to terms with this diagnosis, and I know that the entire rugby community is with them and will offer them their support.”
“We are ready to offer practical and emotional support to the Moody family in whatever way is needed and appropriate; and we encourage people to show their support through the fundraising initiatives that are being established and are available through Go Fund Me.”
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Moody’s former clubs also offered their support through statements.
Andrea Pinchin, Chief Executive of Leicester Tigers, said: “The figures, the trophies and the 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, making 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 research into brain tumors 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, CEO of Bath Rugby, said: “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 raising funds to improve the lives of those who need help and support, is inspiring. This is a devastating illness and we join as a club to offer our full support to Lewis, his family and friends.”
