Charlie Bird’s joy at ‘miracle’ of reaching 74th birthday

Former RTE broadcaster Charlie Bird has shared his amazement and gratitude as he prepares to celebrate his 74th birthday.

Charlie, who was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2021, will turn 74 on Saturday.

“In a way a miracle has happened to me,” Charlie wrote as he shared a video alongside his pooch Tiger.

“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 everyday I live I want to keep raising awareness and extending the hand of friendship to people in dark places.

“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.”

Charlie Bird is receiving hospice care at home as his condition deteriorates.

In a previous statement, he 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 say they will look after me there.”

Charlie Bird is urging businesses to host a coffee morning to help raise money for hospice care.  ‘Ireland’s biggest coffee morning’ takes place on 21 September to raise funds for Together for Hospice, the national hospice movement.

To donate to the Donegal Hospice, or any Hospice nationwide, visit: https://www.hospicecoffeemorning.ie/donate/