Former Wallabies star Nathan Charles diagnosed with motor neurone disease at age 37

Former Australian rugby union player Nathan Charles has revealed he was diagnosed with motor neurone disease on September 13. The 37-year-old former Wallaby, who previously overcame cystic fibrosis to play professional contact sport, described the diagnosis as overwhelming and cruel following months of declining health and medical tests. He confirmed that the disease is already affecting his mobility and ability to complete daily tasks.

Charles represented the Wallabies in four Tests and played Super Rugby for the Western Force and Melbourne Rebels before retiring in 2018. A GoFundMe page has been organized by family and friends to assist Charles and his fiancée, Steph Bailey, with out-of-pocket medical expenses, accessibility modifications, and essential care.