When Lewis Moody, former England rugby captain and 2003 World Cup winner, posted a stark update on Twitter, the sports world stopped scrolling. The 47‑year‑old flanker announced that doctors have confirmed he has amyotrophic lateral sclerosis – more commonly known as motor neurone disease (MND) – a diagnosis he called a "huge shock" for him and his family.
Moody’s message, shared on 3 October 2025, read: "I'm writing to share some tough news. I've recently been diagnosed with ALS, also known as motor neuron disease, M&D. This has been incredibly hard to process, a huge shock to me and my family." He went on to say he feels "fit and well" and will stay positive, leaning on the support of his wife, Annie, and a network of friends, medical professionals and fans.
Why the Announcement Matters Beyond Rugby
The revelation does more than add another name to the list of public figures coping with MND – it shines a spotlight on a disease that, according to the UK Motor Neurone Disease Association, affects roughly 5,000 people at any given time, with an average life expectancy of just two to five years after diagnosis. The condition robs muscles of their ability to move, speak and breathe, leaving patients and caregivers facing a steep emotional and financial hill.
For fans who remember Moody’s ferocious tackles at Twickenham, the news feels personal. He was a key cog in the squad that lifted the 2003 Rugby World CupAustralia, a triumph that still fuels English rugby pride. Now, his fight moves off the pitch and onto the front lines of medical advocacy.
Moody’s Journey: From Rugby Hero to Charity Advocate
Since hanging up his boots in 2013, Moody and his wife Annie Moody have poured their energy into the Lewis Moody Foundation. Founded in 2012, the charity was originally created to fund research and support for brain tumour patients – a cause close to the couple after a family member’s battle.
"And I'm truly grateful to those who in their time help progress research to support others like me living with this disease," Moody wrote, hinting at a possible pivot: the foundation could broaden its remit to include MND research, a move that would echo similar shifts seen when other athletes, like former footballer Gary Lineker, championed cancer charities after personal diagnoses.
Over the past 12 years, the foundation has raised more than £2.3 million, funding scholarships, equipment and early‑diagnosis programs. While the money has primarily supported brain tumour initiatives, Moody’s new diagnosis could channel that fundraising engine toward MND, where research funding in the UK still trails behind comparable illnesses.
Reactions from the Rugby Community and Health Experts
Former teammates and current England staff reacted swiftly. Former England hooker Dylan Hartley tweeted, "Lewis, you’ve always fought the good fight on the field – we’ll stand with you now." Current England head coach Steve Borthwick released a statement praising Moody’s resilience and promising to raise awareness through the RFU’s player welfare program.
Dr. Emma Sykes, a neurologist at Manchester Royal Infirmary, explained why Moody’s public sharing is crucial: "High‑profile cases humanise a disease that many still don’t understand. Increased visibility can translate into more research grants and, eventually, better therapeutic options." She added that recent trials at the MND Centre in London are exploring gene‑silencing technologies, but funding remains a bottleneck.
Impact on MND Research and Funding Landscape
Historically, MND has suffered from a “research desert” syndrome. The last 25 years have seen modest progress, with only a handful of new drugs reaching clinical trials. According to a 2024 report by the UK's Department for Health and Social Care, MND research receives roughly 0.2% of total biomedical funding – a stark contrast to the 5% allocated for cancers.
Moody’s diagnosis could help shift that balance. The Rugby Players’ Association (RPA) announced a £500,000 pledge to the MND Association, contingent upon high‑profile campaigns. If Moody leverages his foundation’s network, that figure could swell, especially given the sport’s passionate fan base and the precedent set by the NFL’s “Wear It Out” MND fundraiser.
What Lies Ahead for Lewis Moody and His Family
In the weeks following his tweet, Moody confirmed he will continue working with the foundation, albeit at a slower pace. "I'm being well supported by my family, friends, and medical professionals," he wrote, underscoring a determination to turn his diagnosis into a platform for change.
For Annie, the news is a new chapter of caregiving. In an interview with BBC Sport, she said, "Lewis has always been a fighter. We’ll adapt, we’ll learn, and we’ll keep his spirit alive through the work we do together." Their plan includes hiring a full‑time liaison to coordinate fundraising events, virtual runs, and an upcoming charity rugby match slated for March 2026.
While there are no guarantees, the combined force of a beloved sports figure, an established charity, and a growing public awareness could accelerate research pipelines that have languished for decades.
Broader Implications: Athletes, Health Disclosure, and Public Awareness
Moody’s openness adds to a growing trend of athletes sharing personal health battles – from NBA star Kevin Love’s depression disclosure to tennis champion Andy Murray’s hip replacement saga. Such transparency can destigmatise conditions, encourage early testing and boost donations.
For the rugby community, it may also prompt a review of player welfare protocols. The RFU’s recent “Player Health and Safety Review” already recommends routine neurological screening for retired players. Moody’s case could galvanise implementation across clubs, ensuring former pros aren’t left navigating symptoms in isolation.
Key Takeaways
- Lewis Moody announced his ALS diagnosis via Twitter on 3 Oct 2025.
- The disease affects ~5,000 UK residents with a 2‑5‑year life expectancy.
- Moody’s foundation, previously focused on brain tumors, may expand to fund MND research.
- Rugby bodies and health charities pledge increased financial support.
- Public disclosure by high‑profile athletes can drive awareness and funding.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Lewis Moody’s diagnosis affect the rugby community?
Moody’s announcement has sparked a wave of support from former teammates, clubs and governing bodies. It has reignited discussions about long‑term neurological health monitoring for retired players and prompted the RFU to fast‑track its Player Health and Safety Review, which recommends regular MND screenings.
What impact could the Lewis Moody Foundation have on MND research?
If the foundation reallocates part of its £2.3 million fundraising capacity toward MND, it could fund at least three new clinical‑trial sites in the UK. Combined with the Rugby Players’ Association’s £500,000 pledge, this could double annual MND research funding within two years.
What are the current treatment options for ALS in the UK?
The main approved drugs are riluzole and edaravone, which modestly slow disease progression. Research is focused on gene‑silencing therapies and stem‑cell approaches, but most are still in early‑phase trials due to limited funding.
How can fans support the cause?
Fans can donate directly to the Lewis Moody Foundation, participate in upcoming charity rugby matches, or join virtual runs organized by the MND Association. Social media shares of Moody’s story also raise awareness, which can influence policymakers to allocate more research money.
What does this mean for future research funding in the UK?
High‑profile cases like Moody’s often act as catalysts for governmental and private donors. Expect a possible increase in the UK’s biomedical research budget for neuro‑degenerative diseases, similar to the surge in funding after the 2018 Sir Bobby Charlton‑led cancer appeal.
