Former England captain Lewis Moody has revealed he has been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), also known as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Moody, 47, retired from rugby in 2012 after an illustrious 16-year career, representing the Leicester Tigers, Bath, England and the British and Irish Lions. Throughout his career, the former flanker won almost every available trophy and participated in some of the sport’s most important matches.
A Look Back at Lewis Moody’s Career



Lewis Moody’s Achievements
During his years 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.

Moody’s Play Style
Nicknamed “Mad Dog”, Moody was known for his bravery and commitment on the field. He played with a stress fracture in his leg and recovered quickly from an ankle injury. He was the first English player to be sent off at Twickenham.

After his retirement
After retiring in March 2012, Moody created the Lewis Moody Foundation in 2014, a charity that supports research, support, and education on brain tumors. His son, Dylan, is a promising goalkeeper in the Southampton under-18s.
What is the ENM?
Motor Neuron Disease (MND) causes progressive muscle weakness. 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. Rugby players such as Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow have died after being diagnosed with the disease.Symptoms of ME
- Weakness or stiffness in hands.
- Weakness in legs and feet.
- Muscle spasms and cramps.
- Difficulty breathing, swallowing, and speaking.
- Changes in thinking and behavior.
Diagnosis of the NMD
Neurologists can diagnose ALS through tests such as blood tests, nerve tests, and MRIs. Symptoms can progress at different rates, making diagnosis difficult.Types of ENM
There are different forms of MND, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the most common form, which causes weakness and wasting in the limbs. Bulbar-onset MND or progressive bulbar palsy (PBP) primarily affects the muscles of the face, throat, and tongue. Progressive muscular atrophy (PMA) and primary lateral sclerosis (PLS) are rare forms of MND.Statements by Lewis Moody
On social media, Moody said: “I am sharing difficult news. I was recently 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 fit and well and am focusing on staying positive, living life, and dealing with the changes I will experience as they come”.
Will continue to support his foundation and will seek opportunities to support a cause closer to his current situation.