Rugby legend Wally Lewis, celebrated for his accomplishments on the field, is now facing the terrifying prospect of having a fatal form of dementia. The 63-year-old Australian icon is believed to be suffering from Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), a condition often associated with contact sports like rugby and boxing.
The concerns surrounding Wally’s health were raised when his partner, Linda Adams, noticed something amiss. She explained during an interview on Australian TV show 60 Minutes, I remember Wally would pick me up and talk to me about something as we’re driving along. About three minutes later, he would say ‘Ah!’ as if he had never told me and then would tell me the same story.
Wally underwent testing after these incidents, and his doctor, Rowena Mobb, all but confirmed the diagnosis following a routine memory test. Recounting the experience, Wally shared, One of my first meetings with the doctor, she asked me to repeat simple things. I think it might have been five things like bus, dog, truck, camera, chair. She mentioned them two or three times, and then she asked me how I was feeling. A minute later, she asked me to recall the words, and I could only remember two of them.
While doctors are almost certain of Wally’s condition, a definitive diagnosis of CTE can only be made through a post-mortem examination of the brain. Wally Lewis, who captained Queensland in 30 State of Origin games from 1980 to 1991, is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in Australian rugby history. Following his playing career, he transitioned into coaching and became one of the country’s top television commentators before being inducted into Australia’s Hall of Fame in October 2016.
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, also known as CTE, is characterized by a progressive degeneration of the brain caused by repeated head injuries. While genetics and other factors may contribute to the development of CTE, the exact mechanisms are still being investigated. The condition is relatively rare and is most commonly found in athletes, particularly football players and boxers.
Symptoms of CTE can include memory loss, confusion, impaired judgment, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and progressive dementia. These signs often manifest years or even decades after the last brain trauma.
Wally’s story serves as a reminder of the potential risks that contact sports can pose on the long-term cognitive health of athletes. While efforts are being made to improve safety measures and raise awareness about the dangers of head injuries, more research and action are needed to protect athletes and promote their well-being both during and after their playing careers.
As Wally’s battle with dementia unfolds, it highlights the urgent need to prioritize player safety, invest in research, and develop effective strategies to prevent and manage brain-related sports injuries. The sports community, medical professionals, and governing bodies must collaborate to find solutions that safeguard the long-term health and well-being of athletes, while still allowing them to pursue their passion for the game they love.
