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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
National
David Kent

Charlie Bird in 'much happier place' and no longer afraid of dying as he gives emotional update

Charlie Bird has said he is in a "much happier place" and no longer fears dying.

The former RTE journalist was diagnosed with motor neurone's disease in 2021 and has kept the public informed of his highs and lows in his life since that day.

Climb With Charlie was an initiative set up by Charlie following his terminal diagnosis to help and show support for everyone who has to climb their own physical and mental mountains in their daily lives.

READ MORE: 'Struggling' Charlie Bird taking break from campaigning to cope with deteriorating health and 'hopeful' of making Christmas

It all culminated in a special climb of Croagh Patrick earlier this year, which raised millions for two worthwhile charities close to his heart.

Charlie Bird presents two cheques to the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association and Pieta House (MAXWELLS)

On Tuesday, Charlie handed two cheques totalling €3.3m to representatives.

Later that evening, he gave an emotional update on social media, writing: "Thanks to everyone who supported climbwithcharlie you made this day possible.

"Just see that amount of money you all did it. I love everyone of you.

"To be honest I was scared of dying but after all the love and kindness you have shown me. I am now in a much happier place. Thanks"

Charlie Bird presents two cheques to the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association and Pieta House (MAXWELLS)

Earlier this month, we learned that Charlie would be taking a break from fundraising in the near future.

He told the Irish Mirror: “I am struggling with my health.

“As you know my voice is gone and now my swallow is affecting me dreadfully. But I am now battling each day now and it is plain and simple living each day as it comes.

Charlie Bird presents two cheques to the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association and Pieta House (MAXWELLS)

“If my health is OK, I will continue extending the hand of friendship and what I mean by that is I will see if there is any other way Climb with Charlie can help people.

“I have lots of thoughts in my head. But I will take a month or two off to try and build my strength and cope with my terminal illness.”

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