World Cup winner and former England Captain Lewis Moody committed to charity challenge despite MND diagnosis
The 47 year old says he's staying positive and feels fit and well
We're hearing how World Cup winner and former England captain Lewis Moody is eager to continue raising money for charity through epic challenges despite his MND diagnosis.
The 47 year old rugby star announced he had the illness yesterday - sending shockwaves through the sporting community.
Trudy Monk, from the Brain Tumour Charity says he won't let it hold him back:
"Anyone who works with Lewis knows what a warm, incredible and inspirational individual he is. I suppose it really goes without saying that the whole charity and the whole brain tumour community stands with Lewis, and his wife Annie, and their family in the news of his diagnosis.
"I mean, he really is one of our most treasured charity ambassadors and the news has shocked us all, but I think what doesn't surprise us is the extraordinary openness, honesty and stoicism that Lewis is showing. It's so true to his character, he's an intrinsic part of the charity's DNA.
"He's been just a beacon of support and inspiration to so many of those living with or affected by a brain tumour, and yeah, he's used his rugby pedigree and his rugby hero status to do so much good. We're so grateful to him and so inspired by him all the time."
Trudy added that they're planning his next challenge already:
"Lewis has said he's very committed to the challenge that we have planned for next October, where he will be going from one of our wonderful research centres in Liverpool, all 1000 miles to Denmark, to raise money for the charity and to shine a light on the interdisciplinary research we do across Europe.
"I think what's been truly extraordinary for me working with Lewis is that, when he received this diagnosis a couple of weeks ago, he still wanted to take part in this challenge and to galvanise other people to do the same thing, it's a testament to what an extraordinary man he is."
After retiring, Moody continued to inspire through The Lewis Moody Foundation, which raises awareness and funds for those facing serious illness and hardship.
You can find out more about the Brain Tumour Charity and the Lewis Moody Foundation on their website.
Lewis Moody's Announcement
The former Leicester and Bath player and England star, announced being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease yesterday morning.
He posted on socials, saying "This has been incredibly hard to process and a huge shock to me and my family."
He continued: "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.
"I am being well supported by my family, friend, 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."
Fellow rugby players Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow have died from the illness in recent years, with rugby - and in particular England skills coach Kevin Sinfield - embracing a high-profile fundraising campaign to tackle it.
Lewis added: "For now, please know I feel your love and support; all I ask if that I am given some space to navigate this with my wife and sons, and those closest to us - but without a doubt, I will continue to embrace life and grasp opportunities in the same way I always have."
Mr Moody was part of the 2003 side that won the World Cup. He won 71 caps for England and also won five for the British and Irish Lions, while he was a seven-time title winner with Leicester.
Leicester Tigers React
Leicester Tigers issued a statement on their website: "Lewis was an instrumental part of a golden era for Tigers. He joined the club from Oakham School and made 223 appearances between 1996 and 2010. In that time the club won seven Premiership and two European Cup trophies."
Tiger chief executive Andrea Pinchen said: "The figures, trophies and awards tell you what an incredible player Lewis was, but that is only half the story,”
"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."
Bath Rugby
Bath Rugby have also reacted to the announcement.
Moody, who played for Bath between 2010 and 2012, earned huge respect both at the club and internationally. Known for his fierce competitiveness and relentless energy on the pitch.
Bath Rugby CEO Tarquin McDonald described the diagnosis as “heart-breaking news,” saying:
"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.”
What is Motor Neurone Disease ?
The NHS say that Motor neurone disease causes muscle weakness that gets worse over a few months or years. It's usually life-shortening and there's currently no cure, but treatment can help manage the symptoms.
No symptoms are the same but as a guide the public health body say these are a sign:
- stiff or weak hands – you may have problems holding or gripping things
- weak legs and feet – you may find climbing stairs difficult, you may trip over a lot and you may find it hard to lift or move your foot (foot drop)
- twitches, spasms or muscle cramps (where muscles painfully tighten)
As MND gets worse, you may have problems breathing or speaking, changes in mood or being unable to move.
MND can be difficult to diagnose in the early stages. But as the symptoms get worse it can usually be confirmed.
You can find out more on the NHS website.
GoFundMe Set up by teammates
A GoFundMe page has been launched by his close friends Geordan Murphy and Leon Lloyd to support his care, his family, and the charitable causes closest to his heart.
The fundraiser states:
Lewis is simply the most kind and inspirational person, as well as being known for all he achieved on a rugby pitch with Leicester, Bath, England and the British & Irish Lions.
A former England captain, a 2003 Rugby World Cup winner and a passionate charitable campaigner; dedicating the last 12 years to raising over £2 million through The Lewis Moody Foundation, to fight for and support those affected by Brain Tumours.
As a measure of the man, Lewis has already found it within himself to focus on staying positive, living life and dealing with the changes he will experience in time as they come.
"But, please, we can help."
We know many people and organisations across rugby, sport and beyond will want to express their good wishes and support for Lewis and the fight against MND. We thought it important to provide a space to do that here.
Rugby Football Union issue statement
Bill Sweeney RFU CEO said:
"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 clubs Leicester Tigers and Bath Rugby with both brilliance and distinction - one of the toughest and most fearless players ever to don a backrow shirt in the game, earning the respect and admiration of teammates, opponents, and supporters alike all over the world.
"His contribution to rugby, both on and off the field, reflects the very best of our sport’s values.
"Our thoughts are with Lewis and his family and friends at this very difficult time as they come to terms with this diagnosis and I know the entire rugby community stands with them and will support them.
"We are ready to offer practical and emotional support to the Moody family in whatever way is needed and appropriate; and we encourage people to show their support through the fundraising initiatives now being set up and available through Go Fund Me."
If you wish to find out more about MND please visit: [https://www.mndassociation.org/ ](http:// https://www.mndassociation.org/ |newtab)
A dedicated email has been set up for anyone wishing to send correspondence to the Moody family (monitored by friends and family), the email is lewis@lewismoody.com.