Lewis Moody Embraces Life After MND Diagnosis, Hopes Sons Follow Sporting Dreams

Former England rugby World Cup winner Lewis Moody has shared his perspective on life following his motor neurone disease (MND) diagnosis, stating he is "at peace" with his condition. Moody, who earned 71 caps for England and won numerous trophies with Leicester Tigers, revealed his diagnosis last year, marking him as the latest former rugby player to be affected by the neurodegenerative disease.

MND affects the body's nervous system and currently has no cure. Despite the gravity of his diagnosis, Moody is channeling his energy into raising awareness and funds to support research for a cure. He has participated in a drug trial funded by the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, established by the late Scottish rugby player Doddie Weir, who also succumbed to MND.

Moody, who is featured in a new documentary detailing his MND journey, has spoken openly with his sons, Dylan and Ethan, about his terminal diagnosis and the future. He emphasized the critical need for continued fundraising and heightened awareness to aid the fight against the disease.

"There’s nothing I can do to change my circumstances, other than to use my energy to raise awareness so that the people who are fighting this disease have the resources they need so we can get to the outcome we all want," Moody stated. "It isn’t far off."

Beyond his personal health journey, Moody expressed his fervent hope that his two sons would pursue professional sports careers. His eldest son, Dylan, 18, is a goalkeeper for Southampton and a member of England's Under-19 squad. Moody's younger son, Ethan, 16, is a promising rugby player currently in Bath's age-grade system.

"I'd absolutely love it," Moody said when asked about the possibility of Dylan representing England at a senior level in football. "He’s got his professional contract and he’s doing really well with England."

Moody acknowledged the hard work ahead for Dylan to reach his goals but praised his son's determination and positive attitude. He recounted a conversation where Dylan expressed his ambition to play for England, a goal Moody initially questioned but quickly came to support wholeheartedly.

"I apologized because it’s not my place to diminish his excitement," Moody said. "If that's his goal, I'm going to be there to support if he needs advice. I love the fact the kids are passionate about something they enjoy."

"Lewis Moody vs MND," a documentary co-produced by 3 Rock Productions and TNT Sports, premiered on September 25th. The film explores Moody's experiences with the disease and his efforts to raise awareness.