England’s 2003 Rugby World Cup winner Lewis Moody has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
The 47-year-old former England captain said it had been “incredibly hard to process and a huge shock to me and my family”.
In a social media post, he wrote: “I’m writing to share some tough news. I have recently been diagnosed with ALS, also known as Motor Neurone Disease (MND).”
He said: “I feel fit and well in myself and I’m focused on staying positive, living life and dealing with the changes I will experience as they come.
“I am being well supported by my family, friends and medical professionals and I’m truly grateful to those who, in their time, helped progress research to support others, like me, living with this disease.
Lewis Moody, fourth from right in the middle row, poses with Queen Elizabeth II after winning the 2003 World Cup. Pic: Reuters
Since retiring from the sport in 2012, Moody and his wife, Annie, have dedicated much of their time to fundraising for The Lewis Moody Foundation, which supports those affected by brain tumours.
“My plan is to continue with this, but to also create an opportunity to support a charity closer to my current situation,” said Moody, who was awarded an MBE for services to rugby in 2004.
“I would be so grateful for your help with this and look forward to sharing more, once I am clear on what this looks like.”
Rugby players may be more prone to motor neurone disease
Fellow rugby players Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow have died from the disease in recent years.
The sport – and in particular England skills coach Kevin Sinfield – have embraced a high-profile fundraising campaign to tackle it.
Athletes appear to be disproportionately likely to contract MND, which causes muscle weakness to the point it can eventually be hard to eat or breathe.
Credit: Action Images / Paul Harding Livepic via Reuters
Research from Durham University found rugby players maybe be especially prone, as those who have suffered multiple concussions have higher levels of certain proteins in their blood that are linked to the disease.
But the exact cause of it remains unknown.
Moody added: “For now, please know I feel your love and support; all I ask is that I am given some space to navigate this with my wife and sons, and those closest to us – but without doubt, I will continue to embrace life and grasp opportunities in the same way I always have.”
A ‘glittering career’
Moody won 71 caps for England and also five for the British and Irish Lions, and was a seven-time title winner with Leicester.
He is perhaps best known for winning the final lineout during the 2003 World Cup final, which led to Jonny Wilkinson’s historic match-winning drop goal.
Lions Rugby Chair Ieuan Evans MBE said: “We are all greatly saddened to hear the news of Lewis Moody’s diagnosis. Lewis has given rugby so much throughout his excellent career.
“As a player, Lewis inspired so many fans during a glittering career that included his club spells with Leicester Tigers and Bath Rugby, a memorable time with his country England – where he played such a big part in their unforgettable 2003 Rugby World Cup win – as well as wearing the famous red Lions jersey including scoring a try in the final test against New Zealand in 2005.
“On behalf of everyone at The British & Irish Lions we are all thinking of Lewis and his family at this difficult time.”
He joined Leicester Tigers from Oakham School and made 223 appearances between 1996 and 2010.
The club said everyone there was “deeply saddened to learn that one of our greatest players” had been diagnosed with MND.
“The figures, trophies and awards tell you what an incredible player Lewis was, but that is only half the story,” said Tigers chief executive Andrea Pinchen.
“As an individual, his commitment to his club along with his warmth and passion shone through, which endeared him to teammates, staff and supporters alike.”
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