Lewis Moody, the former England rugby star and 2003 World Cup winner, has spoken movingly about his life after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease last October. In an interview near Bath, Moody described the condition as a cruel but clarifying force that has sharpened his focus on family, purpose and the present moment. He said the diagnosis has taught him to value time, prioritise the people he loves and direct his energy toward things that feel meaningful. Rather than dwelling on fear, he has chosen to approach the illness with calm, honesty and determination.
Moody, who turned 48 on Friday, remains physically active and appears to be managing the disease slowly so far, though he has noticed reduced finger strength and more fatigue. He said he still goes to the gym and is trying to eat well, as weight loss can be a side effect of MND. He recalled the shock of the diagnosis process, which began after a mild weakness in his left shoulder led to specialist tests and eventual confirmation of the disease. Moody said he was prepared for the possibility after reading about his symptoms and speaking with close friends, but the moment was still devastating for him and his wife, Annie.
He also described the emotional challenge of telling his sons, Dylan and Ethan, about the diagnosis. One reacted with tears and confusion, while the other wanted detailed information. Moody said openness helped the family cope, and that he and Annie wanted to present the news in a way that would be honest but not overwhelming. He emphasized that everyone experiences MND differently, and that statistics do not define every case. He pointed to people such as Stephen Hawking and others who have lived with the condition for many years as examples of the disease’s unpredictability.
The article also highlights Moody’s upcoming participation in a charity cycling challenge from Newcastle to Twickenham, organized in support of the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, which funds research into MND treatments and a cure. Moody will ride with former teammates and friends including Martin Johnson, Jonny Wilkinson, Jason Robinson and Julian White, while his sons join parts of the journey. The event aims to raise £777,777, a figure linked to Moody’s England shirt number. He said the ride is as much about friendship and shared history as it is about fundraising.
Moody reflected on rugby, concussion and the need for more research, saying he does not regret his career and supports his youngest son playing the sport, given improved safety protocols. He said MND is not caused by a single factor and urged continued scientific work. Above all, Moody said he feels a responsibility to carry forward the efforts of fellow MND campaigners such as Doddie Weir, Rob Burrow and Ed Slater. He believes there is real hope for progress and wants to use his platform to help others facing the disease.
