Lewis Moody, a member of England’s 2003 World Cup-winning team, observed his son, Dylan, representing England just days after disclosing his motor neurone disease diagnosis. Moody, a former England captain, shared the heartbreaking news in an interview less than a week ago.
Motor neurone disease has claimed the lives of fellow rugby players Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow. Moody, aged 47, experienced initial weakness in his shoulder at the gym, leading to scans revealing nerve damage in his brain and spinal cord due to the disease.
While Dylan Moody, aged 17, signed his first professional contract with Southampton earlier this year and made his England debut in September, he recently participated in England U18’s 1-0 victory over France at St George’s Park. Moody Jr, a goalkeeper, came off the bench in a team that included Elijah Upson and Reigan Heskey, with Upson’s son scoring the winning goal in stoppage time.
Lewis Moody expressed pride in his son on Instagram, referring to him as a “legend” and a “warrior.” Despite his diagnosis, Moody remains positive, acknowledging minimal discomfort and expressing a determination to maintain a normal life for as long as possible. However, he admitted to feeling apprehensive about the uncertain future.
Moody reflected on his condition, noting that although the diagnosis is emotional, he currently does not feel unwell despite minor symptoms like muscle wasting. He acknowledged a sense of reluctance to fully grasp the implications of his condition and face the future head-on.