Lewis Moody MND Diagnosis: Will Greenwood Leads Outpouring of Support for Rugby Legend
In a shocking and deeply saddening development that has gripped the global rugby community, former England captain and 2003 Rugby World Cup winner Lewis Moody has disclosed his diagnosis with motor neurone disease (MND). The Lewis Moody MND diagnosis was revealed publicly just two weeks after the 47-year-old received confirmation of the progressive, degenerative condition that causes muscle wasting and weakness. Moody has been candid about the emotional turmoil he faces, admitting the profound challenges ahead as he processes this life-altering news. Yet, amid this tragedy, an extraordinary surge of support has emerged, prominently led by his ex-teammate and fellow World Cup hero, Will Greenwood. This wave of solidarity underscores the unbreakable bonds within rugby and highlights Moody’s enduring impact as a person and player.
Will Greenwood’s Emotional Tribute to Lewis Moody
Will Greenwood, who lined up alongside Moody for England and Leicester Tigers, delivered a profoundly moving tribute that resonates with everyone who knows the former flanker. Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, Greenwood described Moody as “the most wonderful human that we love to his very core.” His words, thick with emotion, captured the heartbreak: “It is just tragic news, because he is one of the great guys. And I know there is no order to this stuff — how you leave this planet — but you root for the good guys.”
Greenwood painted a compelling portrait of Moody’s character, blending his off-field warmth with on-pitch ferocity. “There is not a nasty bone in his body, he is the most optimistic human you can hope to find… and then he had an ability on the pitch to just turn a switch and be the most ferocious competitor,” he said. With unwavering confidence, Greenwood affirmed, “He will fight this with every ounce of his strength.” This powerful endorsement provides a ray of hope against the grim backdrop of the Lewis Moody MND diagnosis, inspiring fans and peers alike to rally behind him.
Greenwood’s comments reflect a shared sentiment across the rugby world. As a key figure in England’s 2003 triumph, Moody’s leadership and tenacity were legendary. His diagnosis has reignited conversations about resilience, with Greenwood’s words serving as a rallying cry for the community.
MND’s Devastating Grip on Rugby Stars
The rugby fraternity has been hit hard by motor neurone disease in recent years, making the Lewis Moody MND diagnosis all the more poignant. Tragically, rugby league icon Rob Burrow passed away from MND in June 2024, just months after his courageous battle ended. Similarly, Scotland and British & Irish Lions legend Doddie Weir succumbed to the disease in November 2022. These losses within the last three years highlight the disproportionate toll MND takes on contact sports athletes, fueling urgent calls for research and prevention.
This context amplifies the empathy surrounding Moody’s announcement. The rugby community’s repeated encounters with MND have fostered a network of awareness and action, ensuring that support for Moody is both immediate and informed. It serves as a stark reminder of the need for continued investment in medical advancements to combat this unforgiving illness.
Ed Slater Offers Solidarity to Lewis Moody
Fellow MND sufferer Ed Slater, a former Gloucester and Leicester Tigers second-row forward diagnosed in July 2022, has become a beacon for advocacy and fundraising. Slater, who has raised significant awareness since his MND diagnosis, expressed profound sorrow over the Lewis Moody MND diagnosis, stating he was “absolutely devastated.”
During an emotional BBC Breakfast interview, Moody opened up about his regret: “feeling slightly selfish for not contacting Slater sooner,” overwhelmed by his own prognosis. Slater responded with grace on social media: “We will be here for you as and when you need.” He also promoted a rapid fundraising campaign launched by Moody’s friends, emphasizing the importance of community backing.
This heartfelt exchange exemplifies the lifeline of shared experiences among MND patients. Slater’s role in initiatives like the Slater Moody Fund has already united them, turning personal adversity into collective strength. Their bond offers practical guidance and emotional fortitude, crucial in facing the disease’s progression.
Rugby Football Union Commits Full Support
The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has pledged comprehensive assistance to Moody and his family. Chief Executive Bill Sweeney hailed Moody as a pillar of the sport: “Lewis represented England, the British and Irish Lions and his clubs Leicester Tigers and Bath Rugby with both brilliance and distinction — one of the toughest and most fearless players ever to don a back row shirt in the game, earning the respect and admiration of team-mates, opponents, and supporters alike all over the world.”
Sweeney reaffirmed the RFU’s values embodied by Moody and outlined their response: “We are ready to offer practical and emotional support to the Moody family in whatever way is needed and appropriate; and we encourage people to show their support through the fundraising initiatives now being set up.” This commitment extends to resources for medical care, counseling, and public campaigns, ensuring Moody receives top-tier aid.
Leicester Tigers Pays Tribute to Their Icon
At Leicester Tigers, where Moody made 223 appearances over 14 years—winning seven English titles and two Heineken European Cups—Chief Executive Andrea Pinchen shared a touching homage. “The figures, trophies and awards tell you what an incredible player Lewis was, but that is only half the story,” she noted.
Pinchen recounted a story revealing Moody’s humility: “One minute he’s parading around with the World Cup trophy and the following Friday he’d be in the ticket office where I worked, answering the phone to supporters if we were really busy and helping sell tickets.” This illustrates the genuine connections he built.
She also praised the Lewis Moody Foundation, dedicated to brain tumour research and family support: “He absolutely threw himself in. It was very much lead by example. He would never ask somebody to do something he wouldn’t do himself. He is utterly fearless.” Echoing Greenwood, Pinchen’s words celebrate Moody’s leadership.
Leicester City Football Club added to the tributes, calling Moody “a sporting great of our city,” bridging rugby and football in solidarity.
A Legacy of Courage and Community
The Lewis Moody MND diagnosis has cast a heavy shadow, but the overwhelming response—from Greenwood’s tribute to institutional pledges—reveals rugby’s heart. Moody’s legacy as a 2003 World Cup winner, Lions tourist, and philanthropist endures.
As he confronts this battle, Moody stands fortified by global admiration. Fans are urged to donate to fundraising efforts, turning grief into action. His story inspires hope, proving that even in darkness, unity prevails.
