Nathan Charles, a former Australia rugby international who defied the odds by building a professional career despite living with cystic fibrosis, has revealed he has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND).
The 37-year-old Charles, who represented the Wallabies in four Test matches including a 12-12 draw against New Zealand after making his debut in 2014, disclosed his diagnosis during an interview with former Wallabies lock and current Stan Sport commentator Justin Harrison this week.
MND encompasses a group of progressive neurological conditions in which motor neurones gradually deteriorate. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease, represents the most prevalent form of the condition.
Charles shares his diagnosis with recently retired National Rugby League star Jai Arrow, who was also diagnosed with the same illness.
The former hooker, who retired from professional rugby in 2018, described a prolonged period of uncertainty before receiving his diagnosis.
For a long period there I just didn't know what it was. I've had many tests and seen many doctors, but we just weren't getting any answers. My health just kept declining.
According to ABC News, Charles had been experiencing health problems for seven to eight months and was already relying on mobility aids while struggling with everyday activities. His diagnosis was confirmed on September 13, with his immediate response to the doctor being a stark question about his prognosis.
Speaking about the moment his diagnosis was confirmed, Charles reflected on the emotional weight of the news.
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 noted that he was not previously aware of any connection between cystic fibrosis and MND, according to 7News.
A career against the odds
During his professional rugby career, Charles played Super Rugby for the Perth-based Western Force and Melbourne Rebels, and competed in England with Gloucester, Bath and Wasps. Since stepping away from the sport, he has worked as chief executive of Rugby Western Australia and remained involved with Sydney University Rugby Club.
Charles was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis when he was just three months old and was informed he might not survive past the age of 10. He had previously kept his cystic fibrosis diagnosis largely within his family, according to The Telegraph, because he felt people did not understand the condition.
On his personal website, Charles reflected on his journey with cystic fibrosis.
I am constantly pushing the boundaries and am living proof that anything is possible. It is my personal mission to truly exceed the life expectancy of 37 years [which is the life expectancy of people with CF].
Now facing a new medical challenge without a current cure, Charles has expressed the profound irony of his situation.
I was born with a life-threatening illness. I've given that a red-hot crack. Now this other thing comes along. I find it quite ironic that something else will strike me down rather than what I've been dealing with for my whole life.
Support from rugby community
The Wallabies, currently preparing for Bledisloe Cup Tests against New Zealand this month, posted a message of support on social media. Wallabies captain Harry Wilson said:
We know you have a tough time ahead, but we're with you on every step of the way.
Charles joins a growing list of high-profile rugby figures affected by MND. Former England rugby captain and 2003 World Cup winner Lewis Moody was diagnosed with the disease last year. In recent years, the rugby community has mourned the deaths of Rob Burrow and Scottish rugby union legend Doddie Weir, both of whom succumbed to MND.
Community response and support
According to NZ Herald, a GoFundMe has been established to support Charles, and those close to him are working to establish a foundation bearing his name to help others affected by the disease.
