Lewis Moody: English Rugby Legend and His Fight 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 played in some of the most important matches in the sport.

Lewis Moody’s Career

Lewis Moody was born on June 12, 1978, in Ascot and started playing rugby at the age of five in Bracknell. He attended the prestigious rugby school Oakham, where he initially played as a center and then as a defender. He joined the Leicester Tigers academy, where he became a flanker.

He quickly caused a sensation in Leicester and became the youngest player to represent the club in the league in 1996, at 18 years and 94 days old, a record now held by Ben Youngs. Played 217 times for the club, the most for a flanker, before spending his last 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.

Moody’s Achievements

Moody was at Leicester during their glory years and participated in seven Premiership victories, including four consecutive titles between 1999 and 2002. The Tigers also won consecutive European titles in 2001 and 2002, and Moody also participated in the team that won the Anglo-Welsh Cup in 2007.

He won 71 caps for England, winning two Six Nations titles, including the Grand Slam in 2003. Played in all seven matches as England made history by winning the 2003 Rugby World Cup, and was awarded an MBE in 2004. In 2007, Moody was again a key figure for England when they reached the final of the 2007 World Cup, and ended his career as England captain at the 2011 Rugby World Cup, before retiring from the sport a year later.

Moody’s Play Style

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

His passion for the game was insurmountable.

Life After Rugby

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

What is Motor Neuron Disease?

Motor Neuron Disease causes muscle weakness that progressively worsens over the months or years. There is currently no cure for ALS, but treatments can help manage symptoms for as long as possible. The condition usually develops after the age of 50. People with ENM have a reduced life expectancy. Early symptoms include stiff or weak hands. Other signs include weak legs and feet. Around half of the people with ME/CFS experience changes in their thinking and behavior. Neurologists can diagnose ALS after a general practitioner refers a patient. The CJD affects up to 5,000 adults in the UK at any one time. Overall, there is a one in 300 risk of contracting CJD over a person’s lifetime.

Moody’s Statements

After revealing his diagnosis in an interview, Moody said on social media:

I am writing to share some difficult news.

Lewis Moody

“I have recently been diagnosed with ALS, also known as Motor Neuron Disease. This has been incredibly difficult to process and a big surprise for me and my family. I feel fit and well and focus on staying positive, living life, and dealing with the changes I will experience as they come. My plan is to continue with this, but also to create an opportunity to support a charity closer to my current situation. I will continue to embrace life and seize its opportunities in the same way I always have.