Former England rugby captain Lewis Moody has described his motor neurone disease (MND) diagnosis as 'a gift and a privilege', saying it has helped him focus on what truly matters. The 48-year-old, who won the Rugby World Cup in 2003, received the diagnosis last October after experiencing weakness in his left shoulder.
Speaking from his home near Bath, Moody said MND 'helps you really understand what you love and what makes you happy'. He added: 'The present is all that you have. When you're diagnosed with MND it presents you with that understanding. You realise it's about prioritising the things that are important and, invariably, it's the people you love.'
Moody, known as 'Mad Dog' during his playing days, said he feels he is picking up the fundraising baton from fellow MND campaigners Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow. He has already sorted his life insurance and is focusing on family, including watching his son Dylan play for England Under-18s in goal.
The former Leicester and Bath flanker said the disease is progressing slowly, with only slight diminished finger strength so far. He manages his energy carefully, sleeping more regularly and listening to his body. 'Touch wood, the disease is moving slowly,' he said.
Moody described the two weeks waiting for nerve conduction tests as 'the worst two weeks by far'. He now aims to use his diagnosis positively, saying: 'It simplifies everything and I'm a simple bloke anyway.'
