Former Welsh winger Dafyd James says he talks about his ‘daily battle’ with dementia trying to help others
The former British and Irish Lion said his early-onset dementia diagnosis could explain his mental health problems.
Former Welsh winger Dafyd James has revealed his diagnosis and joined a lawsuit against rugby’s governing body.
The 47-year-old, who has won 48 caps for Wales, talks about the ‘daily battle’ to help others.
Rugby Football Union (RFU), World Rugby and Wales Rugby Union (WRU) said they were “sad” but declined to comment as legal action was pending.
Having played for the Scarlets, Bridgend and Pontypridd, James cut his career short in 2009 after fractured a vertebra in his neck.
He said he suffered from panic attacks and anxiety after he stopped playing, and said he’s been experiencing mental health issues since he was a teenager.
He was tested for dementia because “I wondered what was wrong with me.”
“In a way, I think it’s emphasizing that I have a little answer as to why I feel that way.
“I struggle with mental health. It’s very cathartic in a way to tell people because there are so many people who are suffering, even though I’m trying to help others who are suffering.”
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Dafydd James is now working with several charities and hopes his diagnosis will lead to more awareness about dementia
James explained to his sons that he “didn’t quite understand” his diagnosis, but said he noticed a change in himself.
“They are kids and very supportive.
James, who won three caps with the British and Irish Lions on the 2001 Tour of Australia, said he suffered from “extreme headaches” and “irritated skin” itching all over his body.
“I would like to get more information and learn about it. If that information is passed on to future generations, it will be valuable,” he said.
James is one of 169 former rugby union players, including Ryan Jones and Alix Popham, to file lawsuits against World Rugby, WRU and RFU.
They blame the Governing Body for failing to protect them from permanent brain damage.
Lawyers representing the players said more former rugby union, league and football players were expected to join the lawsuit on Tuesday.
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Dafydd James scored a try in the Lions’ 29-13 victory over Australia in 2001.
Legal action can be complicated and protracted, but James hopes the lawsuit will make the game safer.
“I think both sides have a duty of care to make the game safer so that it can last longer and the game can move forward,” he said.
“I think knowledge is the key to understanding for those who are suffering. I think knowledge is the key and I think it’s important that people practice carefully.
“I hope the game survives and thrives. I am certainly not one of those people who would like to see the end of the game. It has given me great joy.”
A World Rugby, WRU and RFU statement said: “We care deeply about all members of the rugby family and are saddened by the courageous personal testimony of Dafydd and other former players who are struggling with health issues. .
“While we are unable to speak directly to Dafyd due to legal requirements, he and his family have a strong commitment to our interest, our listening, and further solidifying rugby as the most progressive sport in athlete welfare. I want you to know that I never stop when it comes to what I do.”
