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Grianan Of Aileach Perhaps the most poignant is the climb at Grianan in Newtowncunningham, being undertaken by the family of the late Paul 'Diddler' Dillon. He lost his battle with MND in September 2019. Mr Dillon’s wife Emma is organising the event, inviting people to climb with her to the Inishowen ring fort Grianán Áileach, on April 2. Speaking on social media, Mrs Dillon said: “The Climb With Charlie campaign caused a lot of debate in my head. “Initial thoughts, definitely doing something to show my support but then deep bitterness that I have for those three letters, NMD set in. “Seeing firsthand the utter devastation that this awful disease brings to those diagnosed and to their families, it is hard to let go of that bitterness. But I also have the best motivator of all in my head, our very own MND angel, Diddler, telling me you can do this, so, for that reason, we are organising on April 2, to Climb With Charlie and also to remember Diddler. “The climb itself, symbolising the daily struggles all those with MND face. For me to decide to do this, the hardest part of the climb is already done. “The location was hard to decide as I don't think there are enough mountains in Donegal to accommodate everyone wishing to show support to this worthy cause, so we have decided, where better than keep it local and walk from our village to the top of Grianán, a place Diddler always loved. “I will organise a fundraising page with IMNDA and details of that will follow. “So, for now, I hope whoever can will come out and help us Climb With Charlie and Remember Diddler. Never Forgotten Always Remembered Forever Loved. “Emma, Lilly, Heidi and Daisy.”
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Errigal Cllr Ciaran Brogan was also deeply inspired by Charlie Bird, and has been working hard to organise a climb of Donegal’s most famous mountain, Errigal. "Charlie Bird's story struck a chord with us all and many people are keen to take up the challenge,” he said. “I’m happy to confirm that ‘Climb Errgial Together’ will go ahead on Saturday, April 2 - the same day as Charlie's climb in Mayo. "I'm extremely grateful to the members of Donegal Motor Club to lead out with the stewarding and managing of the event along with members of Errigal Cycling Club and Donegal Civil Defence. “I’m delighted to confirm that Donegal International Rally Clerk of the Course, Eamon McGee, will be the main coordinator. Eamon has vast experience in organising large events and he also has a wealth of local knowledge.”
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Carnaween Well known hillwalker and tour guide John McGroary of Walking Ireland is organising a climb of Carnaween in the Bluestack Mountains. After watching Charlie Bird and hearing the inspirational words of those who will join the broadcaster on Croagh Patrick, Mr McGroary said: “The one thing that stood out was the fact that they would like people around Ireland to join in by climbing a mountain in their own area to coincide with their climb. So “Carnaween with Charlie” seems like a good Donegal option.
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Sliabh Liag Sliabh Liag Experience has launched a climb at the famous cliff paths. 'Siúlóid le Charlie, Sliabh Liag Paths With Charlie' takes place on April 2 at 12 noon. Organisers say that Sliabh Liag is one of the three Sacred Mountains of Ireland along with Croagh Patrick and Mount Brandon, so it is appropriate that it is being climbed in solidarity with Charlie Bird and his fellow climbers. It is expected that further events will be confirmed around the county in the coming weeks. People wishing to take part in any of these climbs are reminded that the correct clothing and footwear are crucial. It is also advised that people begin training physically.