Rugby World Unites After Lewis Moody's MND Diagnosis
The rugby community has shown immense support for former England captain Lewis Moody after he revealed his diagnosis with motor neurone disease (MND) in early October. In a powerful display of solidarity, his 2003 World Cup-winning teammate, Kyran Bracken, has made a significant donation of £15,000 to a fundraiser established to support Moody and his family.
A Fundraiser for a Friend
The fundraiser was set up by friend and former colleague Geordan Murphy with an initial target of £280,000. The campaign has seen an overwhelming response, having already gathered nearly £250,000 in donations. The description of the fundraiser paints a picture of Moody as not only a legendary player but a deeply kind and inspirational person, highlighting his 12 years of charitable work through The Lewis Moody Foundation, which has raised over £2 million to support those affected by brain tumours.
Lewis Moody, now 47, earned 71 caps for England and was a key member of Sir Clive Woodward's iconic 2003 World Cup-winning squad in Australia. Renowned for his fearless and tough-tackling style as a flanker for Leicester and Bath, he also captained his country and was selected for the British & Irish Lions tour of New Zealand in 2005.
The Heartbreaking Reality of MND
Moody movingly described the moment he had to break the news of his terminal diagnosis to his two sons, Dylan and Ethan, calling it "the hardest thing I've ever had to do." He shared an emotional account with the BBC, recalling how the family sat together in tears, only for their dog to offer a moment of sweet comfort by licking their faces.
Motor neurone disease is a life-shortening neurological condition that affects the nerves controlling movement, leading to muscle deterioration. There is currently no cure for MND. Tragically, Moody is not the first rugby figure to be affected; the disease has previously claimed the lives of Scottish legend Doddie Weir and rugby league's Rob Burrow, while former South Africa scrum-half Joost van der Westhuizen and former Leicester forward Ed Slater have also received the same diagnosis.
Despite the devastating news, Moody has shown remarkable courage. He stated that while he understands the prognosis, he is currently reluctant to "look the future in the face." He emphasised that he does not feel unwell and that his symptoms—some muscle wasting in his hand and shoulder—are currently minor, allowing him to live his life fully for as long as possible.
