Rugby League News

“Really scary” – Ex-Great Britain and St Helens forward gives update after brain disease diagnosis

by
Sam Cook
August 13, 2024

Former Salford Red Devils and St Helens star Josh Jones has posted an update a fortnight after revealing that he had been diagnosed with Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE).

Jones called time on his career back in 2023, aged 30, and now at 31, he has announced that he has been diagnosed with stage two CTE.

CTE is a brain condition that is believed to be a result of repeated head traumas. It’s a condition that will gradually worsen and can lead to other brain conditions such as dementia.

It’s currently incurable but can be treated with concussions being a leading factor in causing it. One of the biggest reasons that Jones called time on his career was due to numerous concussions and issues regarding blows to the head.

A fortnight ago, the ex-St Helens man revealed on X: “My friends and family, after a challenging few months I wanted to share that I have been diagnosed with stage 2 Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE).

“The news has come as a shock for me and my family and has brought significant changes to my life and the lives of those closest to me.

“My family and I appreciate your support through this difficult period. Much love, Josh.”

He’s now taken to the platform again to provide an update and detail his next steps.

Former St Helens man speaks on “scary” nature of diagnosis

Credit: Imago Images

Jones posted a short video on his X account where he spoke about interactions he has had since his diagnosis with fellow former rugby league players, whilst also confirming that he will continue to post videos throughout his treatment journey to help raise awareness around the condition.

“I just wanted to do a quick video after my recent CTE post,” Jones explained.

“I’ve had quite a few friends reach out and tell me about their brain health and how a lot of their symptoms coincide with what I’ve been going through.

“It’s been a really scary time. To be told that you’ve got probable stage two CTE at age 31 isn’t something that I ever thought I’d have to go through.

“I’m going to start posting some videos to raise awareness around CTE and brain health, regarding my treatments and how I stay on top of them to give myself the best chance day by day.”

Jones started his career at St Helens but would make the most appearances for Salford Red Devils where he played from 2016 to 2019. During that time he earned three Great Britain caps and secured a move to Hull FC before eventually ending his career with Huddersfield Giants.