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 winger won almost all available trophies and played in some of the most important matches in the sport.

A Look Back at 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 and joined the Leicester Tigers academy, where he became a flanker.

He quickly caused a sensation in 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 became 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 part of the Leicester Tigers during their glory years, participating 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 played 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 as England made history by winning the 2003 Rugby World Cup and was awarded an MBE in 2004. In 2007, Moody was again fundamental to 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 game a year later.

Moody’s Play Style

Nicknamed “Mad Dog” for his commitment to the club and country, Moody was a fearless and uncompromising flanker. His passion for the game was unsurpassed, as demonstrated by the fact that he played 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.

Moody’s Life After Retirement

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.

Moody’s legacy in the field has continued with his son Dylan, who is a promising goalkeeper for Southampton’s under-18s and has represented England under-18s.

What is the ENM?

Motor Neuron Disease causes muscle weakness that progressively worsens over months or years. Currently, there is no cure for MND, but treatments can help manage symptoms for as long as possible. The initial symptoms include stiff or weak hands, trouble holding or grasping things, weak legs and feet, painful muscle spasms or cramps. Late symptoms of ALS include trouble breathing, swallowing, and speaking. After revealing his diagnosis in an interview, Moody shared on social media:

I am writing to share some difficult news.

Lewis Moody

“I was recently diagnosed with ALS, also known as Motor Neuron Disease. This has been incredibly difficult to process and a great shock to 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. I have the support of my family, friends, and medical professionals. Since I retired from the sport I love and alongside my wife Annie, I have been able to dedicate a large part of the last 12 years to raising funds for the Lewis Moody Foundation in support of people affected by brain tumors. 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.