Former RTE journalist Charlie Bird has shared a heartbreaking update about his health as he says he faces his 'biggest challenge yet'.
The veteran broadcaster revealed he was 'lucky' to have been able to climb Croagh Patrick last month as his health has since deteriorated.
The 72-year-old was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease last year and set himself the goal of hiking to the top of Croagh Patrick despite having lost his voice. However, he revealed that he is now struggling to swallow and is eating is turning into a "nightmare".
READ MORE: Charlie Bird opens up on 'unbelievable' bond with dog Tiger
Taking to Twitter on Tuesday evening, Charlie wrote: "I am lucky I was able to climb Croagh Patrick. But with my voice gone I am now facing my biggest challenge yet.
"My swallow is getting worse. Sitting down now to eat is turning into a nightmare!
"But I can still extend the hand of friendship to everyone. Thanks for your support."
Since being diagnosed last October, Charlie has lost his voice but is still able to communicate using voice technology.
He can type his message into an app, which then broadcast the words in Charlie's own voice and accent using voice clips from the RTE archive.
On April 2, the retired RTE star was joined by thousands, including Ryan Tubridy and Daniel O’Donnell, as he climbed the Mayo mountain – and said he cried “tears of joy” when he reached the top.
The Climb With Charlie challenge has raised over €2.7 million for the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association and Pieta House..
