Radio DJ Gareth O’Callaghan said the pain from his neurodegenerative illness can be so severe that he sometimes thinks of ending his own life.
But the host, who is living with Multiple System Atrophy, said he realises how furious his wife, Paula, would be if he did.
Reacting to the news he will be returning to radio and re-joining station Classic Hits FM after an almost four-year hiatus, Gareth openly spoke about the effects of his diagnosis.
After revealing his excitement to be returning to radio, he said on Twitter: “Actually I've a confession. I get so p***ed off with pain and other issues sometimes, that I do sometimes think of ending it all.
“But then I remind myself that I love my life, and that my wife would be furious and sad; and for every bad day, there's good days. I love life so much.
“Right so, time to go to bed now. Lots of home truths this past hour. No need to worry about me.
“You see, I'm a talker. Please be a talker to anyone you trust. Don't be afraid of life. It's time and space, and you're in charge of it all. One moment can change everything, or nothing.”
Gareth will present a new show on Classic Hits FM “Gareth O’Callaghan At The Weekend” on Saturdays.
He said: “I’m very excited to get back to Ireland's Classic Hits Radio after a three and a half year break, to present a new Saturday morning show from 10am to 2pm. Ireland's Classic Hits Radio is one of the most exciting radio stations around and I can't wait to get back to the studio and get back on-air”.
"I'm invigorated, feeling great and positive about the future. I want to share this positivity with all the listeners and am so looking forward to getting behind the mic once again,” he added.
Kevin Branigan, CEO, Ireland's Classic Hits Radio said: "We're delighted to welcome Gareth back to Ireland's Classic Hits Radio, he is one of the most influential voices in modern Irish radio and it will be a pleasure to hear his voice gracing our airwaves once again. His enthusiasm is Infectious and we're looking forward to welcoming him back".
