Lewis Moody, the former England flanker affectionately known as "Mad‑dog," recently shared a candid update on his health, smiling as he said, "I'm good at the moment." This simple statement followed his public disclosure last October that he has been diagnosed with motor neuron disease (MND). While the question of how he feels is inevitably complex, his calm and heartfelt reply offered a reassuring glimpse into his current state. Moody’s perspective on living with MND is both uplifting and purposeful.
He has set a series of personal and charitable goals aimed at supporting his own wellbeing, his family, and the wider community of people affected by the condition. Central to his mission is the desire to contribute to the ongoing search for a cure, a cause that has already inspired many in the rugby world. Drawing motivation from fellow rugby legends who have 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, who, after his own MND diagnosis, became a prominent advocate for research funding.
Likewise, former Leeds and Great Britain star Rob Burrow turned his diagnosis into a platform for raising awareness. By joining MNDF, Moody is effectively taking up the baton those icons have carried for years. To mark his commitment, Moody has organized a 500‑mile charity cycle from Newcastle to Twickenham. He has invited members of England’s 2003 World Cup‑winning squad, teammates from his Leicester days, and even former rivals turned friends from the international arena to ride alongside him.
The journey will commence on June 14 at the Newcastle Red Bulls, England’s most northerly club, and conclude on June 20 at Twickenham, where the riders will deliver the match ball for the PREM Rugby Final. Explaining why the My Name’s Doddie Foundation felt like the natural partner, Moody said, "We spent a long time trying to understand where to focus our energy. It quickly became clear that MNDF is the leading force in the MND space, and the work Doddie and Rob have done resonates deeply with me." He added that the environment surrounding MND research today feels markedly different from the one Doddie and Burrow entered. "There is a genuine sense of hope now," Moody noted, emphasizing that hope alone is insufficient without concrete action.
"My energy comes from turning hope into clear steps and measurable outcomes." While the relationship between high‑impact sports, intense physical exertion, and MND remains under investigation, Moody is aware that his condition demands careful management of his own competitiveness and stamina. He explained that the timing of the ride was intentional: "I wanted to start while I still feel physically capable of contributing fully." Moody also reflected on the camaraderie that fuels his motivation.
He recalled the "4Ed" campaign organized by former Leicester teammate Ed Slater, who was diagnosed with MND in 2022. "That experience showed me how powerful it is to gather a group of competitive, slightly mad‑capable friends and push together," he said. "This ride isn’t a race; it’s simply moving from point A to point B, but doing it with a bunch of ‘competitive idiots’ makes the journey enjoyable and meaningful." Medical specialists have given Moody a cautious green light for the challenge.
They stress the importance of staying active but warn against overexertion, as fatigue can set in more quickly for those with MND. "There are new boundaries for me now," Moody admitted, "but I love the idea of sharing a little discomfort with friends while removing the pressure of competition." Six months after his public announcement, Moody described how MND manifests uniquely in each individual. He said the most noticeable change for him is a slight reduction in hand strength, while his shoulder power remains relatively stable.
"The smallest daily tasks—unscrewing a bottle cap, holding a fork, cutting food—can become mental hurdles," he observed. "I try to focus on what I can still do rather than dwell on the things that are becoming harder." Moody’s personal philosophy is rooted in resilience. He wants to demonstrate that even as the disease progresses, he can still achieve meaningful goals.
"It’s not about winning a race; it’s about reaching the finish line, understanding my limits, and showing others that with support and the right mindset, we can overcome adversity," he affirmed. He believes that human beings are inherently tenacious and that, when faced with difficult news—whether MND or any other challenge—people can rise to the occasion if they maintain a positive outlook. Throughout his distinguished career, Moody earned the respect of teammates and opponents alike.
His nickname, "Mad‑dog," reflected his ferocious commitment on the field, a trait that now translates into his off‑field advocacy. By partnering with the My Name’s Doddie Foundation, he continues to channel that same intensity toward raising awareness and funds for MND research. "Being part of this campaign gives me purpose," Moody said. "No one wants an MND diagnosis, but it does place me in a strangely privileged position.
It forces clarity about how I want to live my remaining days and gives me a platform to help others." For those interested in learning more about the My Name’s Doddie Foundation, visit https://www.myname5doddie.co.uk/. Donations to support Lewis Moody’s 500‑mile cycling challenge can be made at https://uk.emma-live.com/LewisMoodyCycle.