Former England rugby captain Lewis Moody has revealed his experience following a diagnosis of motor neurone disease (MND). He discussed the profound impact the news has had on his family and his resolute approach to facing an uncertain future.

A Warm Home, A Difficult Reality

The atmosphere at Lewis Moody’s home near Bath is described as warm and welcoming, reminiscent of the energy he once brought to the rugby field. A lively miniature labradoodle, Ziggy, enthusiastically greets visitors. However, this visit carries a different weight, marking the first in-person meeting since Lewis announced his MND diagnosis last October.

A Growing Concern in Rugby

The news came as a shock to those who knew him, particularly given his successful career with Leicester Tigers, Bath, and England. Lewis, now 47, is among a growing number of former rugby players to receive this devastating diagnosis, joining Joost van der Westhuizen, Doddie Weir, Rob Burrow, and Ed Slater.

Facing the Diagnosis with Strength

Lewis approaches his diagnosis with remarkable clarity and strength. He recounts noticing initial weakness during gym workouts and the subsequent medical consultations. While he had braced himself for potentially negative news, the impact on his wife, Annie, and their sons, Dylan (18) and Ethan (15), was significant.

Family Reactions

He describes the difficult conversations with his family, noting the contrasting reactions of his sons – Dylan’s controlled sadness versus Ethan’s raw emotion.

Maintaining a Positive Outlook

Despite the gravity of the situation, Lewis maintains a positive outlook, focusing on making the most of the time he has with his loved ones. He acknowledges the devastating nature of MND, a life-shortening neurological disease with no current cure, but refuses to let it define him.

Lessons from the Field

Throughout the conversation, Lewis displays the same qualities that made him a successful rugby player: determination, resilience, and a pragmatic approach. He reflects on his career and the lessons learned, referencing team principles like “TCUP” (thinking correctly under pressure) and “Lombardi Time” (always being 10 minutes early) – instilled by his former coach.

Despite the physical challenges ahead, Lewis remains remarkably composed and shows no visible signs of the disease. His story is a testament to the power of preparation, family support, and a refusal to succumb to despair.

Known as ‘Mad Dog’ for his fearless approach on the field, Lewis’s experience underscores the importance of raising awareness about MND and supporting those affected by this cruel illness.