Lewis Moody, the former England rugby star, recently shared a candid update on his health following his Motor Neuron Disease (MND) diagnosis disclosed last October. When asked how he was feeling, he smiled and replied, "I'm good at the moment," a response that was both sincere and moving.

While the question itself is fraught with complexity, his calm and heartfelt answer resonated with many, underscoring his resilient spirit. Moody's perspective on living with MND is nothing short of inspirational.

He has set personal objectives that serve not only his own wellbeing but also aim to uplift his family and the broader community of individuals affected by the disease. Moreover, he is determined to contribute to the relentless efforts of researchers who are working tirelessly to uncover a cure.

Drawing motivation from fellow rugby legends who have faced similar battles, Moody looks to the late Scotland lock Doddie Weir and the celebrated Leeds and Great Britain player Rob Burrow. Both men transformed their diagnoses into powerful campaigns that raised awareness and funds for MND research. In honour of their legacy, Moody has partnered with the My Name's Doddie Foundation (MNDF), stepping into the role of torch‑bearer for their cause.

To amplify the message, Moody has rallied his former teammates from England's 2003 World Cup‑winning squad, his old Leicester colleagues, and even erstwhile rivals who have become friends over the years. Together, they will undertake a 500‑mile cycling challenge, starting at Newcastle's northernmost club, the Newcastle Red Bulls, on June 14 and concluding at Twickenham on June 20. The ride will culminate with the delivery of the match ball for the PREM Rugby Final at the iconic stadium. "We've spent a long time trying to understand the MND landscape," Moody explained.

"When we considered whether to align with an existing charity or create something new, it quickly became clear that My Name's Doddie Foundation is the leading force in this space. It felt natural to join them." Moody highlighted the contrast between his own journey and those of Doddie and Rob, noting a shift from pure uncertainty to a space filled with hope. "When I talk to specialists now, they speak about hope—a sentiment that perhaps wasn't as prominent when Doddie and Rob received their diagnoses.

Hope is valuable, but I find my energy in turning that hope into concrete actions and measurable outcomes," he said. The link between high‑impact sports, intense physical exertion, and MND remains an area of ongoing research, and Moody acknowledges that he must carefully balance his competitive instincts with the realities of his condition. He emphasized that the timing of the ride is deliberate: "I wanted to ensure that physically I felt capable of completing the challenge without compromising my health." Moody also reflected on a previous charitable ride organized in memory of former Leicester player Ed Slater, who was diagnosed with MND in 2022. "That experience reminded me how powerful it is to gather a group of ‘competitive idiots’ who love pushing their limits.

This time, though, we won’t be racing against the clock; it’s simply about getting from point A to point B while sharing the journey together," he remarked. Medical professionals have advised caution, encouraging regular exercise but warning against excessive strain that could accelerate fatigue.

"There are new boundaries for me now," Moody admitted. "But I still love the camaraderie of training with friends, even if it means feeling a little uncomfortable at times.

Removing the race element makes it enjoyable and sustainable." Six months have passed since Moody publicly announced his diagnosis, and he describes MND as a highly individualised disease—its progression varies from person to person. "The most noticeable change for me is in my hand," he said. "My shoulder strength has dipped slightly, but not dramatically. The daily challenge lies in the small tasks—opening a bottle, holding a fork, cutting food.

Those moments test my mental resilience, but I try to focus on what I can still do rather than what I’ve lost." He stressed that his goal isn’t to win a race but to prove to himself and others that he can still achieve meaningful feats despite the disease. "It’s about reaching the finish line, understanding my limits, and showing that with support and the right mindset, we can overcome adversity.

Humans are remarkably resilient," he asserted. Moody’s nickname, "Mad‑dog," reflects the intensity and commitment he displayed throughout his rugby career. It is no surprise that he brings that same all‑in attitude to his advocacy for MND.

"Being part of this campaign gives me purpose," he said. "No one wants an MND diagnosis, but it has given me a strange sense of privilege—a clarity about how I want to live my life moving forward." The My Name's Doddie Foundation continues to spearhead research funding and public education about MND. Supporters can learn more at https://www.myname5doddie.co.uk/ and contribute to Moody’s cycling challenge via https://uk.emma-live.com/LewisMoodyCycle.

By uniting the rugby community and the wider public, Moody hopes the 500‑mile ride will shine a brighter light on the fight against MND and inspire further action, research, and hope for those living with the condition.