Ed Slater, former Leicester and Gloucester rugby player, has called on the government to increase funding for motor neurone disease (MND) research following the recent announcement that England’s 2003 World Cup winner Lewis Moody is living with the illness. Slater, who was diagnosed with MND in 2022, emphasized the urgent need for accelerated treatment development and improved support for those affected by the disease.

Speaking about the urgency of the situation, Slater said that delaying funding advances results in more people losing their independence and, ultimately, their lives. He highlighted that while fundraising efforts by families, friends, and the public are important, they should not be responsible for financing essential research and progress. “We need governments and major institutions to step up, fast-track treatments and support people living with MND properly,” Slater stated.

Slater also extended his personal support to Moody, describing him as a “tremendous guy” with a loving family. He noted that while he did not have a specific message to share publicly with Moody, he stands ready to offer assistance whenever needed.

Motor neurone disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects nerve cells controlling voluntary muscles, leading to loss of movement, speech, and eventually, vital functions. Advocacy from public figures like Slater aims to highlight the pressing need for focused research efforts and sustained government commitment to combat the disease.