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.

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, 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 caused a sensation in Leicester and became the youngest player to represent the club in the league in 1996, at 18 years and 94 days old, a record now held by Ben Youngs. Moody played 217 matches for the club, 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, winning seven Premiership titles, including four consecutive ones between 1999 and 2002. The Tigers also won consecutive European titles in 2001 and 2002, and Moody also 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 when England made history by winning the 2003 Rugby World Cup and was awarded an MBE in 2004. In 2007, Moody was again a key figure for England, who 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 sport a year later.

Moody’s Play Style

Nicknamed “Mad Dog” for his commitment, Moody was an intrepid and uncompromising flanker. He played with a stress fracture in his leg and quickly recovered from an ankle injury, playing the full 80 minutes in his first game back. Moody never backed down from any challenge, as he demonstrated by becoming the first English player to be sent off at Twickenham after a fight with his Leicester teammate, Alesana Tuilagi.

After the withdrawal

After his retirement 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 continues with his son Dylan, who is a promising goalkeeper in Southampton’s under-18 team and has represented England under-18.

What is the ENM?

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 from the age of 50. People with ALS have a reduced life expectancy.

Symptoms of ME

The first symptoms include stiff or weak hands, problems holding or grasping things, weak legs and feet, which can cause problems when tripping, lifting your feet, or climbing stairs. They may also experience painful muscle spasms or cramps. Later, problems with breathing, swallowing, and speech may arise. Around half of the people with MND experience changes in their thinking and behavior.

Diagnosis of the NMD

Neurologists usually diagnose MND after a patient is referred by a general practitioner. Tests include blood tests, nerve tests, and MRI scans. Symptoms can progress at different rates, making diagnosis difficult.

Types and Prevalence of NCDs

The MND affects around 5,000 adults in the UK at any one time. There is a 1 in 300 risk of contracting MND over a lifetime. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common form, causing weakness and wasting in the limbs, muscle stiffness and cramps. The onset of bulbar MND or progressive bulbar palsy (PBP) primarily affects the muscles of the face, throat, and tongue, with early signs such as difficulty speaking or swallowing. Progressive muscular atrophy (PMA) affects fewer people, while primary lateral sclerosis (PLS) is a rare form.

Statements by Lewis Moody

After revealing his diagnosis, Moody said on social media:

I am writing to share some difficult news.

Lewis Moody

I have recently been diagnosed with ALS, also known as Motor Neuron Disease.

Lewis Moody

This has been incredibly difficult to process and a great shock to me and my family.

Lewis Moody

I feel fit and well and focus on staying positive, living life and dealing with the changes I will experience as they come.

Lewis Moody

Moody added that he is receiving good support from his family, friends, and medical professionals. Also, he plans to continue supporting his foundation and create an opportunity to support a charity closer to his current situation. Moody concluded by saying that he will continue to embrace life and take advantage of opportunities in the same way he always has.