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 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
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
‘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.’
More to follow.