Former rugby player Wally Lewis is championing for increased funding for support services and education about Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) in Australia. In a recent National Press Club address, Lewis revealed that he is living with probable CTE, a form of dementia associated with repeated blows to the head.
Despite his storied rugby career in the 1980s, Lewis is now facing memory loss and other symptoms of the debilitating condition. His personal struggles have motivated him to advocate for more resources to help those affected by CTE, as well as to educate the public on the risks of head injuries in contact sports.
Lewis is representing the Concussion and CTE Coalition in calling for millions of dollars in government funding to support research, prevention programs, and services for individuals living with CTE. He emphasized the importance of creating awareness around the long-term effects of concussions and the need for better protection for athletes, both young and professional.
The issue of CTE has gained attention in recent years, with high-profile cases in the NFL and rugby union leading to lawsuits and settlements. CTE can only be diagnosed posthumously and has been linked to repeated head trauma in sports and military service.
Lewis hopes to use his platform to bring about change and protect the brains of children participating in sports in Australia. By raising awareness and advocating for necessary resources, he aims to prevent others from experiencing the same challenges he faces with probable CTE.
