Former England rugby captain Lewis Moody has shared an emotional update on his health condition after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease, expressing profound gratitude for the overwhelming public support he has received since revealing his diagnosis.
Emotional Response to Public Support
The 2003 World Cup winner, who announced his MND diagnosis in October, spoke candidly about his journey during an appearance on the Stick to Rugby podcast. The 47-year-old sports legend revealed he first noticed symptoms when experiencing shoulder weakness during gym training sessions. After physiotherapy failed to improve his condition, subsequent medical scans confirmed damage to nerves in his brain and spinal cord.
Moody described the public response to his diagnosis as deeply moving, stating: "Everyone has been super supportive, super kind. There has been a lot of love shown." He acknowledged the psychological challenge of living with the diagnosis, explaining: "For me it's a weird thing. I feel fine. You have got this sort of piece of news hanging over you, constantly lingering in the back of your mind."
Fundraising and Awareness Efforts
The rugby community has rallied around Moody in remarkable fashion. Friends and former Leicester Tigers teammates Geordan Murphy and Leon Lloyd established a GoFundMe page that has already raised more than £200,000 to support the former flanker and his family during this challenging time.
In a touching show of solidarity, Moody received a warm reception when he carried the match ball onto the pitch at Allianz Stadium before England's recent Test match against Australia. The moment highlighted the deep respect and affection the sporting world holds for the rugby icon.
Moody reflected on the progress in MND research and treatment, noting: "I have learnt a lot along the way. When Doddie Weir was diagnosed seven years ago, there was nothing, really there was nothing for him. And because of the work that he did and Rob Burrow, when I speak to specialists now there is genuine hope."
Kevin Sinfield's Continued Support
In related developments, rugby league legend Kevin Sinfield has extended an invitation for Moody to join his latest fundraising challenge. Sinfield, who has raised over £10 million for MND research since his former teammate Rob Burrow's diagnosis in 2019, is preparing for his '7 in 7: Together' challenge beginning next Monday.
The challenge will see Sinfield run seven ultramarathons in seven days, culminating at Leeds Rhinos' AMT Headingley Stadium on December 7. Sinfield expressed hope that Moody would join him during parts of the route, describing the England star as "a lovely man, a big family man" and emphasizing the importance of showing him the support available from the MND community.
Moody, who earned 71 caps for England and played three Tests for the British and Irish Lions, remains optimistic despite the challenges ahead. His diagnosis comes amid increased awareness of MND in rugby following the deaths of fellow players Doddie Weir, Rob Burrow, and Joost van der Westhuizen from the disease in recent years.
If you've been affected by the issues raised in this story, you can access more information from the MND Association. The charity's helpline MND Connect (0808 802 6262) is available Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm, and 7pm to 10.30pm.
