03 January 2023 , 23:55
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Veteran journalist and broadcaster Charlie Bird says he is not sure how long he "will have mobility" after his Motor Neurone Disease diagnosis.
The RTE legend, 73, has been tirelessly fundraising since his diagnosis in 2021 and often provides updates on his condition on social media.
In April, he organised Climb with Charlie, which saw many join him climbing up Croagh Patrick to raise funds for Pieta House and the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association.
In a video today, shared on Twitter, Charlie told his followers there is "no possibility" he can take part in the climb this year, but he will still mark its anniversary.
Charlie said in a video that his "uncontrollable crying" is getting worse (Twitter)In the video, which shows Charlie at home with his dog Tyler, he says via a voice box: "Hi everyone, on behalf of my wife Claire and of course Tyler, myself, I want to wish everyone who supported Climb with Charlie a healthy and happy New Year.
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"And I want to thank you all for raising €3.5 million for Pieta House and the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association. You are all so kind.
"Now I'm facing into a New Year and while I can I'm going to continue extending the hand of friendship to everyone who, like myself, are in dark places."
Charlie Bird is a veteran journalist and author (@charliebird49/Twitter)Charlie then addressed his uncertainties around his mobility, saying: "To be honest my own situation is not great. I am no longer certain how long more I will have mobility, but I am going to continue to raise awareness for Samaritan volunteers all over the country, who every day are extending the hand of friendship for people who are in dark places.
"I have lots of thoughts running around in my head to mark that great day in April, but now there is no possibility that I could climb Croagh Patrick again. In my head I just want to continue helping people and charities."
In a further candid update, the TV presenter said: "What is really upsetting me is that my uncontrollable crying is getting worse. I don't want to be selfish, there are lots of people with terminal illnesses who are in dark places and we all need to show love and kindness to them."
Charlie was diagnosed after he noticed issues with his voice. In November, he said that his limbs were beginning to be affected, but "some incredible force is helping me to keep fighting on."
Earlier that month, Charlie and his wife Claire spoke about their day-to-day struggles as the journalist continues his health battle.
In April, Charlie climbed Croagh Patrick in order to raise funds for charity (MAXWELLS DUBLIN)Claire told Irish Mirror: "It changes all the time.
"It affects his swallow and eating habits and when we go home, people don’t realise what it is like behind closed doors and all of the day-to-day things that we struggle with.
"But listen we are positive people and you can’t overthink it too much, we like to be positive."
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