Unforgettable: Rugby, dementia and the fight of my life

In 2003, England won the Rugby World Cup, but Steve Thompson, who was in the front row, has been diagnosed with early-onset dementia and chronic traumatic encephalopathy. He is in his early forties and has been diagnosed with early-onset dementia and chronic traumatic encephalopathy. This is a sports memoir and a raw human story of hope and courage.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 28 April 2022
Publisher: Bonnier Books Ltd

In 2003, England secured an incredible victory at the Rugby World Cup, with Steve Thompson playing a pivotal role in their front row. However, the triumphs came at a significant cost. As rugby union transitioned into a professional sport, Steve found himself immersed in a world where raw power held immense importance. Regrettably, he now struggles to recall any memories from that historic final. In his own words, watching the tape is like witnessing a ghost.

The years of physical abuse and the acceptance of punishment in this era have taken a toll on Steve's mental well-being. He has been diagnosed with early-onset dementia and probable chronic traumatic encephalopathy. At the age of just forty, he often finds himself struggling to remember the names of his wife and four children.

Unforgettable is a captivating blend of sports memoir and raw human storytelling. It features stories contributed by Steve's world-cup-winning teammates and his former manager, Sir Clive Woodward. Through this book, Steve aims to create lasting memories for himself and his children while reliving the most challenging battle of his life—the fight against his own mind.

Despite the constant reminders of what he has lost and what remains at risk, Steve's story is one of hope and courage. It serves as a testament to the unwavering strength of the human mind and a man who has shifted his focus from competitive pursuits to finding his place in the world.

Unforgettable stands as a powerful testament to the indomitable spirit of individuals who face adversity head-on. It reminds us that our minds are capable of overcoming incredible obstacles and that we should never underestimate the power of resilience.

Weight: 552g
Dimension: 240 x 162 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788705905