Lewis Moody: English Rugby Legend Reveals ALS (MND) Diagnosis

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’s Career

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, 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 made a name for himself at Leicester, becoming 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 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. In addition, he was 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. He played in all seven matches when England made history by winning the 2003 Rugby World Cup, and was awarded an MBE in 2004. In 2007, Moody was instrumental in 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.

Moody’s Play Style

Considered an intrepid and uncompromising flanker, Moody earned the nickname “Mad Dog” for his commitment to the club and country. His passion for the game was unmatched, as demonstrated by playing with a stress fracture in his leg while at Leicester.

He never shied away from any challenge, such as when he became the first English player to be sent off at Twickenham after a fight with his Leicester teammate, Alesana Tuilagi, in the victory over Samoa.

Life After Rugby

Following his retirement in March 2012, Moody founded the Lewis Moody Foundation in 2014, a charity that helps combat brain tumors through research, support, and education. Moody’s legacy in the field continues with his son Dylan, who is a promising goalkeeper with Southampton U18 and has represented England U18.

What is the ENM?

The 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 disease usually develops after the age of 50. Early symptoms include stiff or weak hands. Other signs include weak legs and feet, which can cause problems when tripping, lifting feet, or climbing stairs. People may also experience painful muscle spasms or cramps. Around half of the people with ME/CFS experience changes in their thinking and behavior. In an interview, Moody stated that he feels good and is focused on staying positive and living life.