Former Australia rugby international Nathan Charles, who overcame cystic fibrosis to forge a professional career, has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND). The 37-year-old, who earned four caps for the Wallabies including a 12-12 draw against New Zealand, revealed the diagnosis during an interview with Justin Harrison on Stan Sport. MND is a progressive neurological condition, with ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) being the most common form.
Charles, who retired in 2018, said his health had been declining for some time before the recent diagnosis. He played for the Western Force, Melbourne Rebels, Gloucester, Bath, and Wasps, and later served as chief executive of Rugby Western Australia. Other rugby figures diagnosed with MND include Lewis Moody, Rob Burrow, and Doddie Weir.
Charles, who was told as a child he might not live past age 10 due to cystic fibrosis, said he is now facing another life-threatening condition. The Wallabies team posted a message of support, with captain Harry Wilson saying they are with him every step of the way.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing