'My death is just around the corner' - Charlie Bird's final RTÉ radio interview

Former RTÉ news special correspondent and broadcaster Charlie Bird recently accepted that “death is around the corner” for him in a radio appearance on RTÉ. 

Just weeks before his death on March 12, the former RTÉ correspondent acknowleged that he didn't have long to live but was still looking forward to getting out for a walk with his wife. 

In a departure from the usual format, the Brendan O'Connor Show went to meet the legendary RTÉ broadcaster as he didn't feel up to coming into them in studio. 

Host Brendan O'Connor described how a computer programme lets Charlie write what he wants to say, and then talks for him in his own voice. "This is going to be a very 21st century conversation," he said. 

Charlie Bird said: "I am not doing great. I am confined to a wheelchair. I am being feed through a tube. I am not able to get from A to B. Claire looks after me around the clock. She is my wife first, but also my full-time carer. I would be lost without her," he said. 

"The honest truth is that I live every day as if it could be my last," he said. 

He agreed with the host that he spends a lot of time reflecting on his life. He said even though he failed every exam in school, he got a job in RTÉ which took him around the world. "In a way, I won the Lotto," he said. 

"I have a terminal illness and I know my death is just around the corner. I am not afraid of dying," he said. 

The power in his legs went just over three weeks ago, which Charlie said "was the worst feeling, not being able to walk anymore". 

However, despite this he hoped to still get out and about. 

“We love the pier in Dun Laoghaire. That is my goal for next week, to meet my friends and walk the pier," he said.

He thanked his wife for all she has done for him. He also paid tribute to his loyal dog, Tiger. "His love is unconditional. I would be lost without him," he said. 

Listen to the full interview here