Charlie Bird had dozens of individuals in tears as he gave an update on his well being on Saturday, revealing that he is misplaced mobility in his legs and might not depart the home.
The journalist, who was identified with Motor Neurone Disease in 2021, appeared on Brendan O’Connor’s RTE radio show and spoke very candidly about his situation and outlook on life.
Sharing a little bit about how his MND is progressing, Charlie informed how he nonetheless finds pleasure within the small issues and particularly in his beloved canine Tiger.
He mentioned: ‘My nice group of pals give me pleasure. Unfortunately, I am unable to depart the home anymore and we’re ready for a wheelchair-friendly automobile now which Claire is choosing up subsequent week.
‘The mobility in my legs went three weeks in the past, and to be sincere, it was the worst feeling not with the ability to walk anymore. Previous to that, I used to be in a position to get into our automobile, however that isn’t doable anymore.
‘We love the pier in Dun Laoghaire. That is my purpose for subsequent week, to fulfill my pals and walk the pier. I like listening to the tales about what is going on on within the information. I suppose you can say to listen to all of the gossip.’
Charlie’s different huge pleasure is his canine, Tiger. He mentioned: ‘I’d be misplaced with out him. His love is unconditional every time he sees me. He is so blissful to see me… He sleeps in our mattress and there may be nothing nicer than the heat of your canine mendacity beside you.’
Elsewhere within the chat, which noticed Charlie play songs which can be essential to him together with his favorite tune by Bruce Springsteen, the broadcaster informed how his views on what’s essential have modified since his MND prognosis and likewise give his recommendation to different folks dealing with troublesome instances.
‘My view on life has utterly modified,’ Charlie mentioned. ‘Live daily as if it was your final and at all times prolong the hand of friendship. Every one in every of us will cross, so I wish to prolong the hand of friendship to anybody who’s in a darkish place.
‘I’ve a terminal sickness and I do know my demise is simply across the nook. I’m not afraid of dying. I’ve had an important life. As RTE’s chief information correspondent, I set to work on the most important tales each at home and overseas. I really feel very privileged that my profession in journalism took me to all these locations.
‘I even have an exquisite household who’ve been by my aspect since my prognosis, who assist me once I want assist. I’ve come to phrases with my sickness however it’s terminal and there may be nothing that I can do to alter that. So, no, I’m not afraid of dying.’
Dozens of individuals praised Charlie for talking so brazenly about his well being on the radio, with many saying they have been left in tears after listening to the emotional interview. ‘Sat right here with tears falling down my face,’ mentioned one person whereas another said it was ‘pretty’ to listen to him on the radio once more.
