A thunderous standing ovation from 82,000 supporters greeted Lewis Moody at Twickenham yesterday as the former England captain carried out the match ball ahead of England's commanding 25-7 triumph against Australia.
The 47-year-old former flanker, who disclosed his motor neurone disease diagnosis in October, appeared visibly moved by the extraordinary reception at the Allianz Stadium.
Moody's presence marked his second public appearance since revealing his battle with the life-limiting neurological condition.
The Leicester Tigers icon's ceremonial duty launched Steve Borthwick's autumn campaign in the most poignant fashion, uniting the rugby community in support.
Lewis Moody was alongside his family at Twickenham
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Accompanied by his wife Annie and their teenage sons Dylan and Ethan, Moody received a warm embrace from England prop Ellis Genge as he made his way to the pitch centre.
The stadium's advertising boards displayed "We are all with you Lewis" whilst the crowd remained on their feet throughout his appearance.
Following the final whistle, Moody joined Guy Pepper and Sam Underhill in England's victorious dressing room, where he addressed the squad and coaching staff.
The former World Cup winner stood alongside his family during the national anthem, beaming as the crowd's applause continued to echo around west London's rugby fortress.
"It was one of my life's greatest pleasures to play for England," Moody stated before the match.
Lewis Moody revealed his motor neurone disease diagnosis last month
| BBC"More importantly, I loved the privilege of doing it alongside some of the most competitive, loyal, committed and hardworking individuals I have ever met."
The former captain expressed how those relationships feel more significant than ever as he confronts his new challenge.
"Those bonds and values feel stronger than ever to me today as a new challenge presents itself and the love and support of this special community embraces us," he said.
Moody thanked the players, England Rugby and Rugby Australia for their compassion and backing.
The 2003 World Cup champion disclosed his MND diagnosis in October, describing it as an enormous blow to his family.
Lewis Moody was making his second public appearance since his MND diagnosis
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He initially noticed shoulder weakness during gym training, with subsequent medical examinations revealing nerve damage in his brain and spinal cord.
MND claims one-third of patients within twelve months and over half within two years, according to the MND Association.
The disease has affected numerous rugby figures, including Scotland's Doddie Weir and rugby league's Rob Burrow, who both died from the condition.
A fundraising campaign organised by friends has already generated over £200,000 to support Moody, Annie and their sons.