Charlie Bird said he cried “tears of joy” after a room in Pieta House’s brand new therapy centre was named in his honour.
The former journalist launched the charity’s new therapy centre in Swords on Friday alongside his wife Claire. Charlie has raised over €1.6 million to date for the suicide awareness group through his famous Climb with Charlie initiative.
The 73-year-old revealed on Twitter that he found the launch incredibly emotional and was touched by the kind gesture from the charity. The room named after Charlie was unveiled with a gold plaque thanking him for his support.
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Charlie wrote on Twitter: “I feel so humble today. Yes, I cried, but they were tears of joy. I was so honoured to open the new Pieta Centre in Swords and to have one of the therapy rooms named after me. But all of you who supported Climb with Charlie should feel proud for extending the hand of friendship.”
The suicide prevention group posted photos of the heartwarming event and praised the broadcaster for “continuing to put others first.” Charlie has been fundraising for several Irish charities following his diagnosis of Motor Neuron Disease in late 2021.
Pieta House currently has 15 centres nationwide that provide people with confidential support. The charitable organisation has launched an appeal for staff nationwide, with roles available for psychologists, liaison officers and administrators.
The recruitment appeals follows increasing demand for Pieta House services. The charity states they received a 30% increase in calls from young men over the past year.
Charlie has been vocal himself about his mental health struggles following his diagnosis with Motor Neuron Disease. He previously admitted he was struggling in a Twitter post but thanked the public for their kindness as he grappled with his condition.
He recently carried out a book tour for his new memoir ‘Time and Tide’ and hosted several book signings across Dublin. The poignant book reveals details about his time as Washington correspondent for RTE and the challenges of his professional life.
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