England’s 2003 Rugby World Cup winner Lewis Moody has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
The 47-year-old former England captain said it had been “incredibly hard to process and a huge shock to me and my family”.
In a social media post, he wrote: “I’m writing to share some tough news. I have recently been diagnosed with ALS, also known as Motor Neurone Disease (MND).”
He 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.
“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 in 2012, Moody and his wife, Annie, have dedicated time to fundraising for The Lewis Moody Foundation, which supports 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,” he said.
“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.”
Fellow rugby players Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow have died from the disease in recent years.
The sport – and in particular England skills coach Kevin Sinfield – have embraced a high-profile fundraising campaign to tackle it.
Moody added: “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.”
Lewis Moody earned his three Lions Test caps during the 2005 Tour of New Zealand.
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He was selected by Sir Clive Woodward to start the final two Tests against the All Blacks, scoring a try in the third and final match.
Moody is perhaps best known for winning the final lineout during the 2003 World Cup final, which led to Jonny Wilkinson’s historic match-winning drop goal.
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Lions Rugby Chair Ieuan Evans MBE said: “We are all greatly saddened to hear the news of Lewis Moody’s diagnosis. Lewis has given rugby so much throughout his excellent career.
“As a player, Lewis inspired so many fans during a glittering career that included his club spells with Leicester Tigers and Bath Rugby, a memorable time with his country England – where he played such a big part in their unforgettable 2003 Rugby World Cup win – as well as wearing the famous red Lions jersey including scoring a try in the final test against New Zealand in 2005.
“On behalf of everyone at The British & Irish Lions we are all thinking of Lewis and his family at this difficult time.”
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