Lewis Moody speaking about his recent health news
- Published
Former England captain Lewis Moody has been encouraged to confront motor neurone disease with "complete determination" by ex-colleague and teammate from the victorious squad Will Greenwood.
Moody, 47, learned he had the degenerative, muscle-wasting condition 14 days prior and has told BBC Breakfast that he is having trouble processing the implications of his diagnosis.
Sports icon Rob Burrow and Scotland and British and Irish Lions great Doddie Weir have both succumbed to the disease within the past three years.
"He is the most wonderful human that we cherish deeply," Will Greenwood, who teamed up with Moody for the national team and club side, told a radio broadcast.
"This is devastating information, because he is among the finest people. And I know there is no order to this stuff - how you leave this planet - but you support the worthy individuals."
"He's completely without ill-will, he is the most optimistic human you can ever meet... and then he had a talent during games to completely change and be an intensely driven athlete."
"He will fight this with every ounce of his strength."
Greenwood and Moody were team-mates with their club and country
The club executive, the team's official at Moody's long-time team, securing multiple domestic championships and international successes over a decade and a half, also paid tribute to Moody as someone beyond just sports.
"The numbers, silverware and recognition show the remarkable sportsman Lewis was, but that is merely one aspect," said Pinchen.
"At one moment he'd be celebrating with the World Cup trophy and the subsequent match day he'd be in the box office where I worked, taking calls from fans if we were really busy and helping sell tickets."
"As an individual, his commitment to his club along with his warmth and passion shone through, which made him beloved among team-mates, staff and supporters alike."
"Consistently seeking to assist people, Lewis alongside his wife Annie have labored diligently through the Lewis Moody Foundation, supporting research into brain tumours and helping affected families."
"He fully dedicated himself. It was clearly shown by personal conduct. He would avoid requiring others to do something he couldn't accomplish personally. He is utterly fearless."
The detailed conversation on MND diagnosis
Connected themes
- National rugby team
- Home nations team
- Rugby football
