Former England rugby captain Lewis Moody has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND), he revealed today.
The father-of-two, 47, who was part of the 2003 Rugby World Cup-winning side, was told by medics he had the disease a fortnight ago after going for tests on noticing changes in his shoulder strength at the gym.
He said he is currently not looking to the future but, rather, focusing on spending time with his wife Annie, and two sons, Ethan and Dylan, as they process the heartbreaking news together.
“There’s something about looking the future in the face and not wanting to really process that at the minute,” Moody told BBC Breakfast.
“It’s not that I don’t understand where it’s going. We understand that. But there is absolutely a reluctance to look the future in the face for now.”
He said he currently feels fine, despite being all too aware of the devastating effects the disease eventually takes on those it impacts, including rugby league star Rob Burrows and Scottish rugby union player Doddie Weir.
Moody, who lifted multiple English and European titles with Leicester and now works as an executive coach, said: “You’re given this diagnosis of MND and we’re rightly quite emotional about it, but it’s so strange because I feel like nothing’s wrong. I don’t feel ill. I don’t feel unwell.”
He added: “There is no cure and that is why you have to be so militantly focused on just embracing and enjoying everything now.
“As Annie said, we’ve been really lucky that the only real decision I made when I retired from playing was to spend as much time with the kids as possible. We don’t get those years back.”
British Lions statement
British & Irish Lions chairman 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.”
Leicester Tigers’ reaction
“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. Always looking to help others, Lewis together with Annie have worked tirelessly through the Lewis Moody Foundation, supporting research into brain tumours and helping affected families.
“I know everyone connected with the club will want to pass on their best wishes and support to Lewis and his family in any way they can.”
