‘He carried the burden of illness with dignity, strength and inspiration’

Former RTÉ journalist and broadcaster Charlie Bird brought the matter to national attention when he public about his diagnosis with Motor Neurone dsease

The Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone group has paid a warm tribute to the late Charlie Bird and said he touched all their lives through the remarkable bravery and resilience he demonstrated throughout his battle with the illness.

Chairman Christy Lehane said people stopped to listen when Charlie was doing an interview and he was not afraid to ask the hard questions. His hunger and passion as a journalist was inspiring.

“He was very open and honest about his Motor Neurone journey and he carried the burden of his illness with dignity, strength and inspiration,” he said.

Two top class journalists: Charlie Bird with current Kerry Person of the Year Katie Hannon at an event in Tralee some years ago

Charlie was diagnosed in 2021 and although he was devastated, he thought about how best he could fundraise and raise awareness of MND.

“In 2022 he organised a Climb for Charlie and he selflessly climbed Croagh Patrick. Irish people were in awe when he reached the top and, in doing this, he raised much-needed funds for IMNDA and, importantly, he raised awareness and got people talking about this awful disease,” Christy said.

“Soon he mobilised the whole country climbing mountains and walking parks to raise funds for the IMNDA who depend so much on fundraising as 86 per cent of their annual budget comes from fundraising”.

Christy Lehane: Chairman of the Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone

The Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone had a walk in Killarney National Park to raise funds on the same day as Charlie was climbing Croagh Patrick and many other groups in Kerry did similar walks – all for a great cause.

“Charlie Bird died living and was courageously campaigning up to the end, extending the hand of friendship to everyone he met along the way,” Mr Lehane said.

Sending a message of sympathy to Charlie’s wife Claire, children and grandchildren, the Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone said: “We thank him and admire him for his courage and all he did for Motor Neurone Disease.

“Rest peacefully now Charlie. Your work on Earth is complete and you have left us an enduring legacy.

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