Charlie Bird has revealed how he feels “'fortunate” to have his family as he opens up about the love he has for them.
The legendary broadcaster, who was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in October 2021, has two daughters, Neasa and Orla, as well as five grandchildren.
Now, as time passes, Charlie has admitted that things are becoming more difficult for him mentally but that the love of his family keeps him going every day.
Charlie said: "You ask how my mental health is - To be blunt, it is all over the place and I have many dark days, but I am in a way very lucky that I have amazing support from right across the country."
"You ask me what fatherhood has given me. I have two lovely daughters and five lovely grandchildren.
"I am in the fortunate position that when I pass, there will be family there to wave me off. I am a fortunate person to receive love and kindness from every quarter and this love is helping me face up to reality.
"I am also fortunate that I have a beautiful and caring wife. Another mad thing is our lovely dog, Tiger, who also helps me to get through those dark days."
Charlie and his wife Claire have also shared that the pair have chosen Inis Oírr as Charlie’s final resting place.
Speaking to the RTÉ Guide, his wife Claire explained: "We spent many a holiday lazing on the rocks at the far side of the island, hoping to see Hy Brazil.
“Now we are both going to be buried here and what better place than Inis Oírr as our final resting place?"
"Life is so precious and we do try to live every moment, but that never really happens," she continued. "It's about survival and trying to keep both of our heads above water,
"We were always very free-spirited before all this happened: travelling around the world, always having adventures. Now we live every day as it comes, and yes, some are better than others."
