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Former Wallabies player Nathan Charles diagnosed with motor neurone disease aged 37

Having defied death since birth with cystic fibrosis, a former Wallaby has now been diagnosed with motor neurone disease.

Published: Wednesday, 30 September 2026 at 11:29 PM
Former Wallabies player Nathan Charles diagnosed with motor neurone disease aged 37
Key Things to Know
  • Former Wallabies hooker Nathan Charles has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease at age 37.
  • Charles played four Tests for Australia and featured in Super Rugby for Western Force and Melbourne Rebels.
  • The 37-year-old revealed he is already using mobility aids for daily tasks.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Former Australian rugby international Nathan Charles has revealed he was diagnosed with motor neurone disease at age 37. Charles, who earned four Test caps for the Wallabies between 2014 and 2015, shared the diagnosis publicly with Stan Sport, describing the progressive neurological condition as extremely challenging, overwhelming, and cruel.

The former Western Force and Melbourne Rebels hooker noted that he already requires mobility aids to complete daily tasks. The news follows a lifelong health journey for Charles, who previously overcame predictions regarding his infant diagnosis of cystic fibrosis.

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