Lewis Moody answered the question about his condition with a calm smile, saying, "I'm good at the moment." After publicly sharing his Motor Neuron Disease (MND) diagnosis last October, such a question could have been difficult, yet his relaxed and heartfelt reply was uplifting. Moody’s perspective on living with MND is nothing short of inspiring. He has set personal goals that benefit himself, his family, and the broader community of people affected by the disease, as well as the countless researchers racing to find a cure. Drawing motivation from fellow rugby legends who faced similar battles, Moody has aligned himself with the My Name’s Doddie Foundation (MNDF).
The foundation was created by former Scotland lock Doddie Weir and former Leeds and Great Britain star Rob Burrow, both of whom turned their diagnoses into powerful campaigns for MND research. Following their example, Moody is now shouldering the baton. He has reached out to former teammates from England’s 2003 World Cup‑winning side, his old Leicester colleagues, and even former opponents who have become friends on the international stage, inviting them to join a 500‑mile cycling challenge.
The ride will begin at the Newcastle Red Bulls, England’s most northerly club, on June 14 and finish at Twickenham on June 20, where the group will deliver the match ball for the PREM Rugby Final. Moody explained why partnering with MNDF felt natural: "We spent a long time trying to understand the MND landscape.
When we looked at charities, My Name’s Doddie Foundation emerged as the leading force, so it made sense to focus our energy there." He noted a key difference between his experience and that of Doddie and Rob: "The environment I entered is far more hopeful. Specialists now talk about hope, which wasn’t as prevalent when they were first diagnosed.
Hope is valuable, but I’m driven by turning that hope into concrete actions and measurable outcomes." While the link between high‑impact sports, intense physical exertion, and MND remains uncertain, Moody is aware that his condition requires careful management of his competitive instincts and fatigue levels during the long ride. "I chose to start the challenge now because I want to be sure I’m physically able to contribute and see it through," he said. Moody also reflected on the camaraderie that motivated him to organise the event. He recalled the "4Ed" campaign for former Leicester player Ed Slater, who was diagnosed with MND in 2022, describing the feeling of reuniting with a group of "competitive idiots" who love pushing their limits.
"We won’t be racing, just getting from A to B, but the shared discomfort and the removal of the race element make it special," he added. Medical advice has been clear: exercise is beneficial, but extreme exertion can accelerate fatigue. "Doctors told me to stay active but to be cautious, to respect new boundaries," Moody explained. "I love the idea of a collective challenge where we can feel a little uncomfortable together, yet without the pressure of competition." Six months after his public announcement, Moody described how MND affects him uniquely.
"The most noticeable change is in my hand. My shoulder strength is slightly reduced, but not dramatically," he said.
He highlighted the daily frustrations of minor losses of dexterity: opening a bottle, holding a fork, or cutting food can become mental hurdles. "I try to focus on what I can still do rather than what I can’t," he noted, adding that his progress remains slow but hopeful. Moody’s personal mission is to demonstrate that he can still achieve demanding tasks despite the disease’s progression.
"It’s not about winning a race; it’s about reaching the finish line, understanding my limits, and proving to myself and others that resilience is possible," he affirmed. He wants his story to reassure anyone facing a serious diagnosis that, with support and the right mindset, humans can overcome adversity. Known as "Mad‑dog" for his fierce commitment on the field, Moody’s intensity now fuels his charitable drive. "Being part of this campaign gives me purpose," he said.
"No one wants an MND diagnosis, but it has given me a strangely privileged perspective. I now have clarity about how I want to live my life moving forward." The My Name’s Doddie Foundation continues to fund research and raise awareness, and supporters can learn more at https://www.myname5doddie.co.uk/. Donations specifically for Moody’s cycling challenge can be made via https://uk.emma-live.com/LewisMoodyCycle.
The 500‑mile ride not only aims to raise vital funds but also to unite the rugby community in a shared mission: to bring hope, action, and ultimately a cure for MND.