In a moving development that has shaken the rugby world, former England captain Lewis Moody has reached out to legendary teammate Martin Johnson following Moody's devastating Motor Neurone Disease diagnosis.
The 45-year-old World Cup winner, affectionately known as 'Mad Dog' during his playing days, revealed the heartbreaking news that has united the rugby community in support.
A Heartfelt Appeal to an Old Friend
Moody didn't hesitate to call upon his former leader, making an emotional plea to Johnson: "I'd pick up the phone to Johnno and say, 'Look, we need to do something about this.'" The two shared countless battles on the pitch, including England's historic 2003 World Cup triumph, and now face a very different kind of challenge together.
Speaking with raw honesty about his diagnosis, Moody confessed: "I'd be lying if I said I wasn't scared. There are moments in the day where you get a bit caught, a bit consumed by it."
The Shocking Diagnosis That Changed Everything
Moody's journey to diagnosis began with subtle symptoms that gradually intensified. "I started getting fasciculations, little muscle twitches," he explained. "Then I started getting weakness in my left triceps and I started getting a little bit of slurring of my speech."
After extensive medical investigations at King's College Hospital in London, the former Leicester Tigers and Bath flanker received the life-altering news that he was facing Motor Neurone Disease.
Rugby Community Rallies Behind Their Hero
The rugby world has responded with an outpouring of support for the popular former international. Current and former players, clubs, and fans have united in their messages of encouragement and offers of assistance.
Moody's diagnosis has also reignited conversations about the potential links between contact sports and neurodegenerative diseases, though no definitive connection has been established in his case.
Turning Fear Into Action
Rather than retreating from public view, Moody has chosen to use his platform to raise awareness and funds for MND research. His courage in speaking out so soon after diagnosis has been widely praised across the sporting community.
The former sportsman is determined to face his challenge with the same fighting spirit that made him such a formidable presence on the rugby pitch for so many years.
As research continues into this cruel disease, Moody's advocacy promises to bring much-needed attention and resources to the fight against MND, potentially helping countless others facing similar battles.
