Charlie Bird has thanked the Irish public for lifting his spirits during his fundraising efforts after an "amazing day" in Merrion Square.
The former journalist spoke today in a touching video message to all of his supporters with his beloved dog Tiger in his arms. His moving words came after an 'amazing day' in Merrion Square Park where the former broadcaster presented two cheques totalling €3,376,000 to the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association and Pieta.
Climb With Charlie was an initiative set up by the RTE star following his terminal diagnosis of Motor Neurone Disease in November 2021 to help and show support for everyone who has to climb their own physical and mental mountains in their daily lives.
Read more: RTE broadcaster Charlie Bird hails 'most remarkable day' as he presents €3m cheque to charities
The fundraiser quickly grabbed the hearts of the nation, with people from every corner of the country eager to extend the friend of friendship. And today, Charlie said that the support of the Irish public helped him out of a very dark place.
He said: "Yesterday as you are probably know- we passed over the two cheques totalling almost 3.4 million euros to two charities Pieta and the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association.
"This staggering amount of money came from you out there. Yes, the people from all corners of Ireland and abroad who supported Climb with Charlie. You are all an amazing group of people who extended the hand of friendship.
"I would love to thank you all individually and give you all a hug. As I have admitted before, I cry an awful lot as this is one of the side effects of my illness. When I was diagnosed last October, I was so scared but the kindness I have been shown by every one of you has lifted my spirits.
"Every one of you that supported Climb with Charlie have brought me to a much happier place. When I was presenting the cheques yesterday, I said that this phase of Climb with Charlie is over but I promise while I still can, I will extend the hand of friendship.
"I am going to rest for a few weeks now but could I ask a favour? If you have any suggestions what I should do next, I will put up a post in a few weeks time and you might let me know your thoughts and suggestions.
"Even Tiger says he would like to extend the hand of friendship. Take care everyone."
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