Former England captain Lewis Moody has revealed he has been recognized with motor neurone illness.
The 47-year-old was a part of the 2003 Rugby World Cup-winning facet and lifted a number of titles with Leicester.
Writing on X, he stated: “I am sharing some tough news. I have recently been diagnosed with ALS, also known as Motor Neurone Disease (MND).
“This has been extremely exhausting to course of and an enormous shock to me and my household.
“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.”
Moody was a long-standing England worldwide, who gained the lineout that led to Jonny Wilkinson’s World Cup-winning drop aim in 2003.
He captained England within the 2010 Six Nations and retired from the game in 2012.
“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,” Moody stated.
“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 proceed with this however to additionally create a possibility to assist a charity nearer to my present scenario. I might be so grateful on your assist with this and stay up for sharing extra, as soon as I’m clear on what this seems to be 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 son, and those close to us – but without doubt, I will continue to embrace life and grasp opportunities in the same way I always have.”
RFU CEO Invoice Sweeney stated: “We are all deeply saddened and distressed to learn that Lewis Moody has been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.
“Lewis represented England, the British and Irish Lions and his golf equipment Leicester Tigers and Bathtub Rugby with each brilliance and distinction – one of many hardest and most fearless gamers ever to don a backrow shirt within the sport, incomes the respect and admiration of teammates, opponents, and supporters alike all around the world.
“His contribution to rugby, both on and off the field, reflects the very best of our sport’s values.
“Our ideas are with Lewis and his household and associates at this very tough time as they arrive to phrases with this analysis and I do know the whole rugby neighborhood stands with them and can assist them,” he added.
“We’re prepared to supply sensible and emotional assist to the Moody household in no matter means is required and acceptable.”
