Lewis Moody: English Rugby Legend and His Battle Against ALS

Former England captain Lewis Moody revealed on Monday that he has been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Motor Neuron Disease (MND). Moody, 47, retired from rugby in 2012 after an illustrious 16-year career, during which he represented the Leicester Tigers, Bath, England and the British and Irish Lions. The former flanker won almost all available trophies and participated in some of the most important matches in the sport.

Lewis Moody Career Review

Lewis Moody ended his playing career with the Bath team. Born on June 12, 1978, in Ascot, Moody started playing rugby at the age of five in Bracknell. He attended the prestigious Oakham rugby school and joined the Leicester Tigers academy, where he became a flanker.

He quickly made a name for himself at Leicester and became the youngest player to represent the club in the league in 1996, at 18 years and 94 days old. He represented the club 217 times, the most for a flanker, before spending his final two years at Bath. He debuted for England in 2001 against Canada and was an integral part of the World Cup-winning team in 2003. He also represented the British and Irish Lions on the 2005 tour to New Zealand.

Lewis Moody’s Achievements

Moody played a significant role in seven Premiership victories with Leicester, including four consecutive titles between 1999 and 2002. The Tigers also won consecutive European titles in 2001 and 2002. He won 71 matches with England, winning two Six Nations titles, including the Grand Slam in 2003.

He participated in all seven matches when England made history by winning the 2003 Rugby World Cup and was awarded an MBE in 2004. He played in all three matches of the 2005 Lions series in New Zealand. In 2007, Moody was key to England reaching the 2007 World Cup final, and he ended his career as England captain at the 2011 Rugby World Cup, before retiring from the game a year later.

Gameplay Style

Moody became a fearless and uncompromising flanker, and developed the nickname “Mad Dog” for his commitment to the club and the country.

His passion for the game was unparalleled, as demonstrated by playing with a stress fracture in his leg. He never backed down from any challenge, such as when he became the first England player to be sent off at Twickenham.

After the Withdrawal

After retiring in March 2012, Moody created the Lewis Moody Foundation in 2014, a charity that helps fight brain tumors with research, support, and education.

About the ENM

Motor Neuron Disease causes muscle weakness that progressively worsens. There is currently no cure, but treatments can help manage symptoms. The condition usually develops after the age of 50. Early symptoms include stiff or weak hands. Other signs include weak legs and feet. They may also experience painful muscle spasms or cramps. Late symptoms include problems with breathing, swallowing, and speech. Approximately half of the people with ME/CFS experience changes in their thinking and behavior. Neurologists can diagnose ALS after a general practitioner refers the patient. Tests include blood tests, nerve tests, and MRIs. The MND affects up to 5,000 adults in the UK at any one time. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common form of MND.

Moody’s Statements

In social media, Moody said: “I’m writing to share some difficult news. I was recently diagnosed with ALS, also known as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.”

This has been incredibly difficult to process and a great shock to me and my family. I feel fit and well and I am focusing on staying positive, living life and dealing with the changes I will experience as they come.

Lewis Moody

Moody added that he is receiving good support and will continue with his charitable foundation, as well as looking for opportunities to support a cause closer to his current situation.