Former Wallabies hooker Nathan Charles diagnosed with MND after health decline

SYDNEY — Former Australia rugby international Nathan Charles, who overcame cystic fibrosis to play a contact sport professionally, has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND).

The 37-year-old Charles, who made his test debut in 2014 and earned four caps for the Wallabies, including a 12-12 draw against New Zealand, revealed he has been diagnosed with the same illness as recently retired National Rugby League star Jai Arrow.

MND is an umbrella term for a group of progressive neurological conditions where the motor neurones degenerate. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common form, and ALS is often called Lou Gehrig’s disease.

During an interview this week on Stan Sport with former Wallaby and now commentator Justin Harrison, Charles said he had only recently been diagnosed.

“For a long period there I just didn’t know what it was,” Charles, who retired from professional rugby in 2018 said. “I’ve had that many tests, seen that many doctors and it just wasn’t getting any outcome, but my health just kept declining.

“And then recently, in the last few weeks, I was actually diagnosed with motor neurone disease, which has been extremely challenging and overwhelming. I know there’s no cure and … your physicality, your body deteriorates and, yeah, your life cuts short.”

Charles played Super Rugby for the Perth-based Western Force and Melbourne Rebels, as well as stints in England and France. Since retiring he has worked as chief executive of Rugby WA and been involved in the Sydney University rugby club.

Lewis Moody, the former England rugby captain and 2003 World Cup winner, was diagnosed last year with MND.

High-profile players who have died from the illness in recent years include Rob Burrow and Scottish rugby union star Doddie Weir.

Charles, on his personal website, said he was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis, which primarily affects the lungs and digestive system, when he was three months old and told he may not live past 10.

“I am constantly pushing the boundaries and am living proof that anything is possible,” he said in a post to raise awareness for his the condition. “It is my personal mission to truly exceed the life expectancy of 37 years (which is the life expectancy of people with CF).”

Now, he said he's trying deal a medical setback for which there's currently no cure.

“I was born with a life-threatening illness. I’ve given that a red-hot crack. Now this other thing comes along,” he said. “I find it quite ironic that something else will strike me down rather what I’ve been dealing with for my whole life.”

The Australian team, preparing for Bledisloe Cup tests this month against the New Zealand All Blacks, posted a social media message of support. Wallabies captain Harry Wilson said: “We know you have a tough time ahead, but we’re with you on every step of the way, Mate.”