news

Charlie Bird thanks public as he reaches new “miracle” milestone

Published 17:11 6 Sept 2023 BST

Home news

"I can’t really believe it."

Charlie Bird has said that the support he has received from the Irish public is what has kept him going amid his battle with Motor Neurone Disease. The former RTÉ broadcaster was diagnosed with MND back in 2021 and has been candid about his deteriorating health since discovering his illness. Previously speaking about how he didn't believe he would see another birthday, he has now thanked his family, friends, colleagues and supporters nationwide for their support as he approaches his 74th birthday.

"I can’t really believe it. I am going to be 74 this week," he said.

https://twitter.com/charliebird49/status/1699064610245288331

Charlie Bird thanks family, friends and the public as he turns 74

In the video posted to social media, Charlie said: "Around this time last year I said I didn’t know if I would see another birthday. But the love from Claire, my two daughters and all of my RTE colleagues, and the love and kindness that has been shown to me from people right across this country has helped to keep me alive. It has been amazing, there are no words to describe it. "Yes, in the last while Motor Neurone has seriously deteriorated, but every day I live I want to keep raising awareness and extending the hand of friendship to people in dark places." Also appearing in the social media video was his beloved dog, Tiger, with Charlie adding: "And these are not glib words, I really do love everyone. And of course, I cannot forget Tiger. It is a miracle the way he looks after me." The comments come after the broadcaster revealed he is now receiving hospice care at home. The broadcaster has urged businesses to now host a coffee morning next month in a bid to raise € 2 million to support its work. Speaking about his declining condition, 73-year-old Charlie said: "Every day is a struggle for me now. "But I live each day at a time. My MND has deteriorated, especially affecting my mobility. "I want to make one thing very clear: when my time comes, I want to pass away at home surrounded by my family - and the Hospice care team says they will look after me there."