Former England captain Lewis Moody has revealed he has been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Motor Neuron Disease (MND).
Moody, 47, retired from rugby in 2012 after a distinguished 16-year career, during which he represented the Leicester Tigers, Bath, England and the British and Irish Lions.
The former flanker conquered almost all available trophies and participated in some of the most important matches in the sport.
Lewis Moody, born on June 12, 1978, in Ascot, began playing rugby at the age of five in Bracknell. He studied at the prestigious rugby school Oakham, and joined the Leicester Tigers academy, where he became a flanker.He debuted for Leicester in 1996, being the youngest player to represent the club in the league, a record now held by Ben Youngs. He played 217 matches for the club before ending his career at Bath.
His debut for England was in 2001 against Canada, and he was a fundamental part of the 2003 World Cup-winning team. He also represented the British and Irish Lions on the 2005 tour to New Zealand.
Moody’s Achievements
During his time at Leicester, Moody won seven Premiership titles, including four consecutive ones between 1999 and 2002. The Tigers also won consecutive European titles in 2001 and 2002. In addition, he participated in the team that won the Anglo-Welsh Cup in 2007.With England, he earned 71 caps, winning two Six Nations titles, including the Grand Slam in 2003. He played in all seven matches of the 2003 World Cup, and was appointed MBE in 2004.
In 2007, she was a key player for England in the 2007 World Cup final, and she ended her career as England captain in the 2011 World Cup.
Player Features
Nicknamed “Mad Dog” for his commitment, Moody was known for his bravery and dedication on the field.His passion for the game was unmatched, demonstrated by playing with a stress fracture in his leg. He never backed down from any challenge.
After the Retreat
Following his retirement in March 2012, Moody created the Lewis Moody Foundation in 2014, a charity that supports research, support, and education on brain tumors.His legacy continues with his son Dylan, a promising goalkeeper in the Southampton under-18s.
What is the ENM?
Motor Neuron Disease (MND) causes muscle weakness that progressively worsens. Messages from motor neurons in the spine and brain stop reaching the muscles, causing weakness, stiffness, and wasting.
There is currently no cure for MND, but treatments can help manage symptoms. The condition usually develops after the age of 50.
Some early symptoms include stiff or weak hands, trouble gripping things, weak legs and feet. Other symptoms include trouble breathing, swallowing, and speaking.
Around half of the people with ME/CFS experience changes in their thinking and behavior.
Neurologists can diagnose ALS through blood tests, nerve tests, and MRIs.
The vCJD affects up to 5,000 adults in the UK at any one time. There is a one in 300 risk of contracting vCJD over a lifetime.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common form of MND. Bulbar-onset MND or progressive bulbar palsy (PBP) primarily affects the muscles of the face, throat, and tongue.
Progressive muscular atrophy (PMA) affects fewer people, while primary lateral sclerosis (PLS) is a rare form of MND.
Statements by Lewis Moody
In social media, Moody said: “I am writing to share difficult news. I have recently been diagnosed with ALS, also known as Motor Neuron Disease. This has been incredibly difficult to process and a huge shock for me and my family.
I feel good and in shape, and I focus on staying positive, living life, and dealing with the changes I will experience as they come.
I have the support of my family, friends, and medical professionals. My plan is to continue with this, but also to create the opportunity to support a charity closer to my current situation. I will continue to embrace life and take advantage of opportunities in the same way I always have.”
