1 month ago
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Lewis Moody, an England World Cup winner in 2003, has confirmed the devastating news he has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
The former Leicester and Bath flanker, now 47, was a member of Sir Clive Woodward's squad that tasted global glory in Australia.
Renowned as a fearless and tough-tackling forward, Moody won 71 England caps and was also a British & Irish Lion in 2005.
He confirmed his MND diagnosis on Monday morning on social media.
'This has been incredibly hard to process and a huge shock to me and my family, Moody said.
'I feel fit and well in myself and I'm focused on staying positive, living life and dealing with the changes I will experience as they come.
Ex-England star Lewis Moody confirmed he has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease
Moody, pictured alongside his wife Annie, opened up about his diagnosis on Monday morning
Moody won 71 England caps and was part of the World Cup winning squad back in 2003
Moody had played in all seven World Cup matches for Sir Clive Woodward's side - pictured in the middle row as the England squad attended a reception at Buckingham Palace
'I am being well supported by my family, friends and medical professionals and I'm truly grateful to those who, in their time, helped progress research to support others, like me, living with this disease.
'Since retiring from the sport I love, and alongside my wife Annie, I've been able to dedicate much of the past 12 years to fundraising for The Lewis Moody Foundation in support of those affected by brain tumours.
'My plan is to continue with this but to also create an opportunity to support a charity closer to my current situation. I would be so grateful for your help with this and look forward to sharing more, once I am clear on what this looks like.
'For now, please know I feel your love and support. All I ask is that I am given some space to navigate this with my wife and sons, and those closest to us – but without doubt, I will continue to embrace life and grasp opportunities in the same way I always have.'
The British & Irish Lions and Moody's former clubs Bath and Leicester have pledged their support following the news of his diagnosis.
'We are all greatly saddened to hear the news of Lewis Moody's diagnosis. Lewis has given rugby so much throughout his excellent career,' said Ieuan Evans, Lions Chair.
'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.'
Moody and his wife Annie, centre right, have raised money for his foundation to support people affected by brain tumours, but he plans to support a charity close to his current situation
Bath Rugby, CEO Tarquin McDonald, said: 'This is heartbreaking news and our thoughts and best wishes go out to Lewis, his immediate family, and wider circle of friends and loved ones.
'Lewis is, and always will be, part of the Bath Rugby family as a former player who has laid down roots in the local community, and a true ambassador for the sport.
'His charitable work through his Foundation, dedicated to raising awareness and funds to improve the lives of those needing help and support, is inspirational.
'This is a devastating illness and we stand together as a club to offer our full support to Lewis, his family and friends.'
Leicester offered their support to Moody, who won seven Premiership and two European Cup trophies, at the club.
'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.'
'In the first instance, former Tigers' teammates and close friends Leon Lloyd and Geordan Murphy are launching a GoFundMe page which will support Lewis and his family, as well as their associated charities.'
Moody was renowned as a fearless and tough-tackling forward during his career
Leicester confirmed Moody's former team-mates and close friends Leon Lloyd and Geordan Murphy have launched a GoFundMe page which will support Lewis and his family, as well as their associated charities.
'I know the Tigers Family will join me in letting Lewis, Annie and their family know that our thoughts and support are with them always.'
Leicester also invited fans to send messages of support via [email protected], which they said will be monitored and passed onto the family by close friends.
More to follow.
