Poor man.
Only weeks after his big climb up Croagh Patrick, Charlie Bird has broken some devastating news about his health.
Sharing an update in a video, the RTÉ journalist told supporters that he “cannot hide from the fact that my Motor Neurone Disease is getting progressively worse.”
Reasurring followers that he is staying positive, he said that “while I still can I’m going to continue to extend the hand of friendship. I would love to hug you all and get Tiger to give you a lick Thanks and stay safe.”
It was only earlier this week that Charlie shared the news that his swallow was becoming more difficult to do and is now “facing my biggest challenge yet.”
A message for everyone who went walking and climbing for climbwithcharlie. Everyone who showed powerful love and kindness and who extended the hand of friendship. I am finding it hard for me to convey the thanks and the love I have for all of you. Xxxx pic.twitter.com/jO8ynfbWeR
— Charlie Bird (@charliebird49) May 6, 2022
In an update to his Twitter followers, Charlie said that while he was lucky to be able to climb the mountain, sitting down to eat is now “turning into a nightmare” as he has increased difficulty swallowing.
“I am lucky I was able to climb Croagh Patrick. But with my voice gone I am now facing my biggest challenge yet,” he said.
“My swallow is getting worse. Sitting down now to eat is turning into a nightmare!
“But I can still extend the hand of friendship to everyone. Thanks for your support.”
The Climb with Charlie campaign wound up raising over €2.5 million for Pieta and the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association.
A number of Irish stars joined Charlie for the Croagh Patrick climb, including singer Daniel O’Donnell and the Late Late Show host Ryan Tubridy.
Charlie said he was “blown away” by the support he received and thanked everyone for taking part.
