Search icon

News

13th Jun 2023

Charlie Bird gives heartbreaking health update as he reaches ‘crossroads’

Clodagh McKeon

Charlie said his health and movement is deteriorating.

RTE’s Charlie Bird took to Twitter last night and shared a very honest and heartbreaking health update with his followers.

Charlie, 73, was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in 2021 and has since captured the hearts of the nation who follow his journey religiously.

Through his positivity and strength, he inspires the country however last night he said he was “at a crossroads” with his health.

He wrote:  “I want to be very honest with everyone who is supporting me.

“My health is deteriorating and so is my movement. I think I am at a crossroads. But I want to continue to extend the hand of friendship.

“And I am going to continue to raise awareness for groups that need support.”

In May, the former RTE broadcaster had a fall which leaded to an overnight stay at Dún Laoghaire Hospital.

On return home, Charlie took the time to praise hospital staff and called them “heroes”.

He said: “I had another bad fall yesterday, but frontline medical people looked after me so well in Michaels hospital this morning.

“No broken bones and I want to extend the hand of friendship to all our great medical workers who look after all of us so well every day. You are heroes.”

Since the fall and Charlie’s update last night, people across the country have been sending their love and support through social media.

One person wrote: “Wishing you all the strength in the world. You truly are inspiring despite the obstacles you face helping others.”

Another said: “Keep up the good work Charlie. You are making a difference in people’s lives.”

Charlie has touched everyone in Ireland with his dedication to raise awareness and fight MND.

Another supporter wrote: “Look after yourself Charlie and thank you for raising awareness x a wonderful legacy.”

Only a few weeks ago Charlie fulfilled his bucket list dream of meeting his favourite singer, Bruce Springsteen.

Although it looked like he wouldn’t make it to the concert because of his bad fall, Charlie was front and centre after the rock n roll legend played a series of concerts in the RDS.

Related articles:

LISTEN: You Must Be Jokin’ with Aideen McQueen – Faith healers, Coolock craic and Gigging as Gaeilge