"I'm doing well at the moment," Lewis Moody says with a smile, reflecting on his journey since being diagnosed with Motor Neuron Disease (MND) in October. Despite the challenges, Moody's outlook on life with MND is nothing short of inspirational. He has set ambitious goals to support himself, his family, and others affected by the disease, while also contributing to the quest for a cure. Drawing inspiration from rugby legends like Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow, who tirelessly worked to raise awareness and funds for MND research after their diagnoses, Moody has partnered with the 'My Name'5 Doddie Foundation' (MNDF) to carry on their legacy.

Moody has invited his former teammates from England's 2003 World Cup-winning squad, as well as friends from his time in international rugby, to join him on a 500-mile cycling journey from Newcastle to Twickenham. The ride, which begins on June 14 at Newcastle Red Bulls, will culminate in the delivery of the match ball for the PREM Rugby Final at Twickenham on June 20. For Moody, supporting MNDF feels like a natural fit.

"My family and I have spent a lot of time understanding the MND space, and it quickly became apparent that the My Name's Doddie Foundation is the leading force in this area," he explains. Moody notes that his experience with MND is different from that of Doddie and Rob, as he feels a sense of hope that may not have been present when they were diagnosed. "When I speak to specialists, they talk about hope, and I don't know if that would have been the case back then," he says.

"Hope is one thing, but action is where I find my energy and focus. I want to turn hope into clear actions and outcomes." Moody is aware that the links between impact sports, physical exertion, and MND are not yet fully understood, but he knows that living with MND means he must be mindful of his fatigue levels, especially during the 500-mile cycle ride.

"The reason we're doing it so soon is to ensure that I'm physically capable of contributing and completing the ride," he adds. Moody's goal is not to race, but to bring his friends together and enjoy the experience. "It's about getting from A to B, not about competing.

We won't be racing anywhere," he says. Since publicly revealing his MND diagnosis six months ago, Moody has noticed significant changes in his daily life. "The only noticeable change is still in my hand, with diminished shoulder strength," he explains.

"The hardest part is dealing with the little things, like opening a bottle top or holding a fork. But I focus on the things I can still do, rather than what I'm less capable of." Moody wants to show that despite his diagnosis, he can still achieve great things. "It's about getting to the end, understanding what I'm capable of, and still being able to do it," he says. "I want to show that with the right mindset and support, we can still do whatever we choose to do." Throughout his illustrious playing career, Moody was respected and admired by teammates and opponents alike.

His nickname 'Mad-dog' reflects his commitment and intensity on the field, which is now being channeled into raising awareness for MND through the 'My Name's Doddie Foundation'. "Being part of this campaign gives me purpose," he says. "It brings a smile to my face, and I feel privileged to be in this position.

I have clarity on how I'm going to live my life from now on." For more information about the work of MNDF, visit https://www.myname5doddie.co.uk/; donations to Moody's cycle challenge can be made at https://uk.emma-live.com/LewisMoodyCycle.