'I'm still hanging in': Charlie Bird shares health update and plans for charity walk
Broadcaster Picture: Lawless Charlie Retired Bird Brian
Charlie Bird has shared an update on his condition telling his followers on X, formerly Twitter, that he's "still hanging in."
The retired broadcaster was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) three years ago, and has already raised over €3.5m for the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association and mental-health organisation Pieta as part of his Climb with Charlie campaign.
MND is a condition that affects the brain and nerves, causing weakness that worsens over time. While there is no cure for MND, there are treatments to help reduce the impact it has on a person's daily life.
Today, the 74-year-old took to his social media to say he wanted to "extend the hand of friendship to all carers across the country."
Bird went on to say that he understands the level of commitment involved in carers' support. "I now have first hand experience of the valuable work they do," the former journalist pointed out.
"I'm still hanging in. And in April I will be leading a walk in Wicklow for all Samaritan volunteers."
The special Hand of Friendship Walk for Samaritans is being supported by Coillte, which is inviting the public to Rathdrum for the event with wheelchair and buggy friendly route available.
The walk will take place through Avondale Forest Park in Charlie Bird's beloved Co Wicklow on Sunday, April 21.
Earlier this month, Bird shared more about how he was managing his illness with his followers. He'd explained how his health had "changed completely. I now have to be hoisted in and out of bed", he wrote.
I want to extend the hand of friendship to all carers across the country. I now have first hand experience of the valuable work they do.
— Charlie Bird (@charliebird49) February 29, 2024
I am still hanging in. And in April I will be leading a walk in Wicklow for all Samaritan volunteers. Details to follow
Since his MND diagnosis, Bird communicates using a bespoke app that contains pre-recorded phrases voiced by him before he lost his voice. The app was created by Marino software. He now uses a wheelchair but continues to campaign for awareness of the condition and the importance of support from mental health organisations such as Samaritans and Pieta House.
In an outpouring of support across his social media channels, Charlie Bird's followers offered their gratitude for his unwavering determination. Samaritans Ireland tweeted: "We're so grateful for your continued kindness and support and we look forward to walking alongside you in April. Lots of love from all your friends in Samaritans."
Sarah O'Toole, Executive Director for Samaritans Ireland paid tribute to Charlie Bird for all the support he's given to the organisation. "Charlie is an inspiration to so many and his determination to continue to support us and others is incredible," she said.
Others, including author Niamh Fitzpatrick, took to social media to applaud the personality's drive. "Charlie, I'll be keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers," she said.
"You've done such important work - raising funds, raising awareness, consistently sharing reminders to help one another in the darkest hours. Your messages are important; they will be remembered."
You can register to take part in the walk by contacting www.samaritans.ie