Lewis Moody, Rugby World Cup Winner, Reveals ALS Diagnosis
Former English rugby player, Lewis Moody, Rugby 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, revealing the emotional impact of the illness. “There’s something about looking the future in the face and not really wanting to process that right now,” he commented. Moody was a key player in England’s 2003 triumph and amassed 71 international matches between 2001 and 2011. He played in all seven World Cup matches in Australia, standing out in the final against the host team, where he won the line-out that led to Jonny Wilkinson’s decisive drop goal.
In his statements, Moody expressed that his symptoms are mild, including some muscle wear in his hand and shoulder, and that he is still able to perform any activity. “Rugby is a great community,” added Moody. “I’ve had an incredible life.” In a social media post, Moody described the diagnosis as a “shock”, but highlighted the support of his family and medical professionals, thanking those who have driven research to help people like him who live with this disease. Moody retired from international rugby in 2011 and from professional play a year later.“They give you this ALS diagnosis and we’re quite excited about it, but it’s so strange because I feel like nothing’s happening,” Moody said. “I don’t feel sick. I don’t feel bad.”
Lewis Moody
