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Operation Transformation 2019

  • BARRETT, ELAINE

Age: 44

Location: North Wall, Dublin 1

Weight: 13st 10.5lb

Elaine Barrett is a single mum of two who lives in Spencer Dock in the north inner city of Dublin with her son Nathan (21). She works in an after school project on Sheriff Street.

With two grown up sons, Elaine admits that she put her own life on hold to care for them and the rest of her family, including her mum Marie who had cancer five years ago.

Elaine piled on two stone in weight this year alone and says she feels that she has lost control of her eating habits.

Elaine’s dad Noel suffered a heart attack twelve years ago, and her mum is sick once again, (Marie already lost half of her lung through cancer) Elaine is fearing that her weight could lead to health complications later in life and she feels that she is finally ready to tackle it head on.

 Quotes to follow

  • BYRNE, CONOR

Age: 26

Location: Baldoyle, Dublin 13

Weight: 18st 11lb

Ex-rugby player Conor (26) lives in Baldoyle with his mother Yvonne and sister Lyndsey (33). Lyndsey also applied for Operation Transformation this year and both are taking part in the Assessment Day.

As a teenager Conor was a keen sportsman, he was a Dublin Boxing champion at 16 and was captain of Leinster Rugby Metro team at 18 at the Leinster Rugby Academy. Conor spent 18 months in Australia and his plan was to get sponsored as an insurance agent. He completed exams and had a company lined up to sponsor him but during this time Conor started to suffer with back pain, similar to Lyndsey’s. The more pain he was in the less Conor went out and the more he stayed in the more he ate to comfort himself. His weight crept up and Conor started to lose touch with his friends in Australia. He returned home in July 2018 to have an MRI on his back only to be told he needed emergency surgery. While recovering from surgery at home in Dublin, Conor learned the company in Australia due to sponsor him had gone under and so had his dream of returning to Australia.

Conor’s personality has completely changed since gaining weight, he’s lost his confidence and because he never spoke to anyone about his weight he’s become distant from friends. Conor is ashamed of his weight he feels uncomfortable in social situations so he just avoids them and by doing this he has lost touch with a lot of friends in Dublin.

After a tough year Conor needs to get a handle on his weight and get back his spark.

What made you decide to apply for Operation Transformation? 

I felt I had what it takes to lose the weight on my own but after failed attempts & some unlucky events I knew I needed help, not with just my weight but with others aspects in my life.

Me and my sister had both applied to the show, she never knew I applied and when OT reached out to my sister that was good enough for me as I knew, as a family we would all support each other. Then when OT tried to contact myself, I ignored the calls because I did not want to affect my sister’s application but when one of the OT Team came out to our house, they made me see sense to push forward with my application. 

I’m incredibly proud of both of us to have made it this far. 

Why do you think you’d make a good OT leader?

Mostly I am just a normal 26 year old who has had a hard couple of years and let it get the better of me. I’m determined to make a change to help myself but want to help others along the way and I’d hope people could relate to that. 

In what ways has your weight held you back to date?

My weight is holding me back becoming the person I want to be, my goal is to be able to work with people actively, I want to be in the sports industry. 

Recently I found out I was born with a condition where the shock absorbers between the disks in my spine are thin, carrying this weight puts extra pressure on them. Doctors have told me I have to lose this weight or it could cause me massive back problems further down the line. 

What difference are you hoping OT would make to your life?

 I hope OT will completely turn my life around. I’m desperate to be a healthy person who is happy & confident in himself. I’m quite an unlucky person in the sense that when things seem to be going well for me they manage to go wrong big & small so I’m hoping this is my lucky opportunity. I know in my own heart given this opportunity I will give it absolutely everything I have. 

What do your family and friends think of you applying for the series?

I still have not told my friends as of yet, I wanted to see how today went before telling everyone but I know they would be absolutely buzzing for me. It took a lot out of me to apply for OT as I’ve spoken about things in my life that I always put to one side. My family are so proud of me, my sister is here today so I’ve been modelling my spandex in the sitting room for her & my girlfriend this week so I’ve given them a giggle at what would be going out on TV if I was to get it, whatever happens, she knows that I’m always proud of her and vice versa, our Ma has our back and has full faith in both of us so whatever happens she is proud of us putting ourselves out to trying to make a positive change in our lives. 

 

  • BYRNE, LYNDSEY

Age: 33

Location: Baldoyle, Dublin 13

Weight: 14st 13lb 

Swim Teacher Lyndsey (33) works at SportsLink in Santry and lives at home in Baldoyle with her mum Yvonne (59) and brother Conor (26). Boyfriend Rudy still lives in the South of France, where he’s from, but after 2 years of a long distance relationship he hopes to make the move to Ireland full time next year.

Even though there is 7 years between them, Lyndsey is very close to her brother Conor, so close that both of them applied for Operation Transformation this year. Mum Yvonne feels Lyndsey’s a great leader the only thing she can’t get a handle on is her weight.

Two years ago Lyndsey discovered she was pregnant and she was very excited. Unfortunately, at 19 weeks a pre-natal scan revealed her baby’s skull wasn’t forming properly, a condition known as anencephaly and he wouldn’t survive long after birth. Lyndsey had to make the difficult decision to seek a medical abortion in Liverpool in 2016. The loss of her baby boy hit Lyndsey hard and she turned to food to help her get through it.

Lyndsey has struggled with back pain from the age of 15. Last December she had to have a back surgery after months of chronic back pain with a bulging disk in her lower back. She still suffers from back pain from time to time and sees a physio regularly but she knows losing the weight will help long term.

Lyndsey loves her job in SportsLink and her managers want to send her on courses for Fitness Instruction but right now her weight is holding her back.

What made you decide to apply for Operation Transformation? 

One of my managers was asking me to lifeguard for the day OT would be recording in my job. It was like a light bulb just went off in my head and I realised this would be for me. 

Why do you think you’d make a good OT leader?

I think I’d make a good leader because I want everyone to be involved. Everyone wants to lose a bit of weight or get fit. I just think it’s no fun doing it alone, the more the merrier we can all do it together

In what ways has your weight held you back to date?

My weight has held me back getting another surgery I need to help with my back problems. 

What difference are you hoping OT would make to your life?

I hope OT helps me change my way of dealing with stressful situations. If I lost the weight I could have my second surgery and hopefully live a pain-free life.

What do your family and friends think of you applying for the series?

My mam is so proud of me applying. I only told her after I got the first phone call. I think it secretly inspired my brother to apply who is also here today. I honestly think the rest of our friends and family would think we really deserve it and be so happy for us.

 

  • DONAGHY, COLETTE

Age: 38

Location: Belfast, Co. Antrim

Weight: 20st 11.5lb

Colette Donaghy (38) is a mum of one from Belfast who has a busy job as a solicitor with the Commissioner for Children and Young People in Northern Ireland. She lives at home with husband Darren and son Cáolan (3).

She has battled with her weight most of her life and was always the chubby child in school. She underwent a gastric by-pass when she was 24 stone at just 28-years-old, after which she lost a massive eleven stone. But over the years the band loosened, her old habits came back and the weight piled on again.

She lost her mother in 2017 with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis and she knows that she is emotionally eating as she tries to cope with her loss.

Her husband Darren has Multiple Sclerosis and Type 2 Diabetes and she is hoping that they can get fit together.

Her own personal goal is to get fit and healthy so that she can have another baby.

What made you decide to apply for Operation Transformation? 

I had a recent health scare and thankfully I was given the all clear but the Doctors told me that I had had my warning and I needed to listen to it.  I feel that now is the right time for me to take some control back over my life – especially my weight – so that I can be the best version of me for my son.   My Mum was a big fan of the show and she died in January 2017 and I want to do this to honour her memory as all she wanted was for me to be fit and healthy. Also, my sister sent me the link to the application form every day for a fortnight so I kind of had to!

Why do you think you’d make a good OT leader?

Last year I watched the show and I felt a resonance with every one of the Leaders in different ways.  I feel like my weight gain and loss story will resonate with the public – I am an extreme yo-yo dieter who is the Mum of a very active 3-year-old who works full time and has very little time to dedicate to myself and my health.  I think that my new-found determination to get my life back under control, for the benefit of myself and my family, will inspire people to follow my plan.  I am also quite dead on!

In what ways has your weight held you back to date?

My weight impacts on every single aspect of my life. I have let many opportunities pass me by because of my weight and my lack of confidence in myself.  More importantly than the impact on me, my weight has started to negatively impact on my son as I am not fit to keep up with him.  I am determined to redress this so that I can be the active and healthy, energetic mother that he deserves. 

What difference are you hoping OT would make to your life?

I am realistic enough to know that being on OT will not solve everything but I want it to help me lay a strong foundation on which I can build.  Being able to be supported in a holistic way with my diet, exercise and my mind I am certain will be the key to me being successful.  I want to become stronger in mind and in body and to regain my faith and confidence in myself.  I would love to have a second baby and OT would give me the chance to be better able, physically and emotionally, to complete my family.  

What do your family and friends think of you applying for the series?

They are fully supportive of me – my sister contacted the show to make sure that applicants from the North could apply and then sent me the link to the application every day for a fortnight!  My husband and sisters have watched me struggle over recent years and are exasperated with me at this stage.  All they want is for me to be comfortable in myself again and they recognise that OT offers me the perfect chance to achieve this.  My husband has warned me though that he does not want me to end up as a meme on the internet or a GIF so I need to give it my all and not make an eejit of myself.

 

  • FENNELL, ROSS

Age: 18

Location: Tallaght, Dublin 24

Weight: 16st 2lb

Ross Fennell (18) is from Tallaght, Dublin and is currently studying for his Leaving Certificate. He has lived all of his life with his mum Leona, his nana Linda and granddad Anthony, in his grandparent’s home.

Ross has being overweight all of his life and has had to leave numerous groups and activities over the years due to bullying.

He is addicted to spice bags and loves Burger King. He confesses to hiding sweets in his bedroom and is an emotional eater. He gets upset just seeing his own image in a mirror.

He wants to come on Operation Transformation so that he doesn’t eat his way through his exams. He is hoping to find a way to juggle studying time with exercise while avoiding bingeing on takeaways and junk food.

What made you decide to apply for Operation Transformation? 

I’ve noticed I struggled with my weight for quiet a while now and I want to do something about it before I’m 18 stone and can barely walk. I’m also planning to go to college in September 2019 and I don’t want to be overweight going in. I’m also doing the leaving cert and my biggest downfall is stress eating and I need to know how to manage that I can’t afford to put on any more weight.

Why do you think you’d make a good OT leader?

I tick a lot of boxes I’m young and obesity is on the rise for young people in Ireland. I work shifts and a lot of people find it hard to eat healthy when you work shift hours because we only get small breaks. I’m also a student so i need to find a cheap way to live because i believe eating healthy is expensive so the only option is FAST FOOD 

In what ways has your weight held you back to date?

My weight has held me back in so many ways when I was in my previous school I got bullied because of my weight so I would get changed in a different changing room than the other boys. i used to be on the Tallaght swim team when i was young but in P.E. in school I would not go into the pool. it has stopped me from loving myself such as i hate shopping now I only shop twice a year maybe three times it any time I walk out of a shop I feel so low in myself

What difference are you hoping OT would make to your life?

I’m hoping my life will be changed forever. I hope to eat vegetables. I don’t eat veg so I hope to get that into my daily diet. I hope I will be able to go shopping and feel good when I leave the shop. I also hope when I finish OT I will go to college and try new sports 

What do your family and friends think of you applying for the series?

My family and friends are very supportive of me they know how much I want this and how much my weight has affected my in the past and now so they are very supportive.

 

  • GALLAGHER, CATHAL

Age: 48

Location: Ballyshannon, Co. Donegal

Weight: 26st 12.5lb

Cathal (48) works as a paramedic with the Ambulance service based in Ballyshannon and lives with his wife Agi (36) and daughter Maja (2).

Cathal has been working with the Ambulance service for 20 years now and loves his job. He has huge passion for helping people and putting the needs of others before his own. He is also a peer support worker, which involves supporting other colleagues who have dealt with hard situations.

Before working with the ambulance service Cathal worked in a factory. It was here that he was involved in an accident. He was taking a piece of rubber out of a machine when it activated and it crushed his hand. He was taken to hospital and ended up having the tops of his middle finger amputated as it got infected. After 7 surgeries doctors were able to restore 75% functionality in his hand.

After the accident Cathal became isolated spending the majority of his time at home just eating contently and not moving much at all. It wasn’t until he joined the ambulance service that he realised his weight was getting out of hand.

Cathal is a type two diabetic and has high cholesterol and with his training he knows the damage his weight is doing to his health. He fears he will die in his sleep but wants to be around to see his daughter grow up. As she gets older and more active he struggles to keep up with her. He wants to change this lifestyle and be a good example for his daughter but also his work colleagues.

What made you decide to apply for Operation Transformation? 

To be totally honest I didn’t apply, my wife Agi did. She has real concerns about my current and future health and we had discussed applying in the past but I was too ashamed to do so. I’m delighted now that she did,  as this will be the turning point in my life to better health, happiness and longevity. 

Why do you think you’d make a good OT leader?

I know I’d make a good OT leader because for most of my adult life I’ve always tried to help others. As a paramedic, I help people when they are sick or injured every day but as an OT leader I know I can help people who have a health issue similar to mine, a health issue I can totally relate to and that together, with me helping them and them helping me, we can achieve whatever goal we set for each other.

In what ways has your weight held you back to date?

I’ve deliberately avoided countless weddings, holidays, family occasions and even funerals because of my weight and size. Even more recently I’ve avoided bringing my little girl Maja to the beach or the playground because I feel embarrassed and inferior in the company of other mums and dads. I feel that because of my size I’m bringing shame to my wife and child. Agi is always on to me about bringing Maja to the swimming pool as she loves splashing about in the water but I’m mortified at the thought of people who know me seeing me in my swimming trunks. But that’s all about to change!

What difference are you hoping OT would make to your life?

My hope is that the OT experience will teach me not to try and take on life’s challenges by myself, which I’ve done for years, but instead make me more accepting of the people and systems that offer genuine help and encouragement. With this support and the assistance of not just the experts but of my family and friends and hopefully my followers I will at last be able to live my life to its full potential, enjoying the walks on the beach with Agi and Maja, taking the weekend breaks or the summer holidays abroad maybe even accepting the odd summons to a wedding or two.

What do your family and friends think of you applying for the series?

To date those I’ve spoken too are totally supportive and over the moon that I’m putting myself forward for the OT challenge. Everyone that knows of my involvement are 100% behind me with everyone offering encouragement and good wishes along with whatever help they can to see me achieve what they say is a fantastic opportunity to have a better, healthier and longer life. I know that with their help and support I can do what I’ve dreamt about for years, to be a genuinely happy and feel healthy and fit.

 

  • GRANT, DEIRDRE

Age: 35

Location: Mullinavat, Co. Kilkenny

Weight: 14st 11lb

Busy mum Deirdre (35) has 3 children under 5 and works as part of the clerical staff in Waterford Garda Station. She lives in Mullinvat, Co. Kilkenny with her husband Kieran (34) and their three children Lucy (4), Tom (2) and Kate (11 months). Deirdre only returned to work in August after her maternity leave with Kate and she’s finding juggling 3 children and a full time job tough.

Deirdre used to be very active – she even won an Under 16 All Ireland medal for basketball and went on to train the team. Now Deirdre doesn’t like to put on exercise gear because ‘it’s just for skinny people’. At this point Deirdre feels she’s too heavy to exercise.

Self-confessed chocoholic Deirdre sometimes replaces meals with a few bars of her favourite chocolate. Mornings can be hectic feeding 3 children and getting them to pre-school and the child-minders so for Deirdre breakfast is often a bar in the car on the way into work.

Deirdre is worried that if she doesn’t put a stop to her bad eating habits now where does it end! If she lost the weight Deirdre would love get back her self-confidence and to run a marathon.

What made you decide to apply for Operation Transformation? 

I was sitting at home one night, stuffing my face with chocolate, looking at dresses online and I just thought to myself … “this HAS to stop, how am I ever going to lose weight if I can’t stop eating and I’m always making excuses not to exercise” …  My 3 kids are small now and love being out and about but I feel If I don’t do something about my weight now, Il just end up getting bigger and bigger. 

Why do you think you’d make a good OT leader?

I think I would make a good leader as I feel a lot of people could relate to me because I’m just a normal person living a “normal but busy” life, a working mother with 3 young kids who has just got stuck in a rut and left the weight creep on. If I was a leader for the nation I would give this OT journey 120% commitment. I feel I would be a fun leader as I’m practical and Love to motivate and drive others on whilst being part of a group. 

In what ways has your weight held you back to date?

The last few years I have always wanted to take up an exercise class or join a gym or just be able to go cycling with my kids on the Greenway but I feel I’m too self-conscious right now exercising around people or groups. I’m also probably more self-conscious about going out with friends now. People always think I’m the funny, bubbly, confident one in the group but deep down I am very self-conscious about my weight . 

What difference are you hoping OT would make to your life

I hope I would develop a new relationship with exercise and food that would help me to become healthier. I hope OT would give me the push that I need to help me to take control of my life, my weight and overall health. I was always sporty in my teens, so I would love to get back playing a sport again so that when my kids start playing, I would be able to get involved with them. 

What do your family and friends think of you applying for the series?

Everyone including family, friends and work colleagues have all been so supportive since I applied.  They all agree that this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to get the professional and expert advice to help me become a “new healthier me” both for my family and for our future.

 

  • KENNY, FRANK

Age: 48

Location: Gorey, Co. Wexford

Weight: 21st 6lb

Frank Kenny (48) is a divorced father of four, and a granddad of two. Originally from Ballybrack in Dublin, he now lives in Gorey, Co Wexford with his widowed mum Margaret.

Frank was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes earlier this year and he has been advised that losing weight could really help him to beat the illness.

He is in his last year in college in IADT Dun Laoghaire studying for a Level 8 Business Degree in Entrepreneurship and Management.

He is hoping that he can lose weight and gain enough confidence to allow him progress in a new business once he gets his college qualification.

What made you decide to apply for Operation Transformation? 

I was watching a similar programme on a UK channel. I love to see people change their lives in a positive way and it moved me. 

Later on, I was watching telly, eating and drinking and saw the ad for Operation Transformation on RTE so I applied to do the same for myself.

I can be pretty determined and can achieve things when I get into something. Getting the motivation is the problem, this is where the OT programme can help me. 

Why do you think you’d make a good OT leader?

I am an ordinary person trying to deal with the same stuff everyone else does every day, if other people see that I can change my lifestyle and become healthier it might motivate them too.

When I can, I like to help and encourage people. 

In what ways has your weight held you back to date?

Every way you can think of. I had successfully progressed through a recruitment process and had the job in the bag, only to fail the medical due to being overweight. 

Socially, I make excuses not to go out because I am self-conscious about my body. 

I find it hard to get clothes to fit and look well. 

At the Grad fair, I wouldn’t approach stands because I was self-conscious of my weight. 

It had a major part to play in my divorce not so much the weight but the habits with eating and drinking.

What difference are you hoping OT would make to your life?

The eight-week programme will get me motivated and on track with the right tools that will allow me maintain lifestyle changes long term.

I will feel more confident about my body image in social and professional situations.

Most importantly it will make me healthier, improve my diabetes, reduce the risk of cancer, cardio, kidney and liver disease.

What do your family and friends think of you applying for the series?

Already I can’t believe the response. My family & friends are delighted and any other people who are aware have been very encouraging.

My family think it is great just what I need and it will change my life. 

My six-year-old granddaughter says it will make my diabetes go away and wants to help me exercise and plan my food.

 

  • LAWLESS, COLM

Age: 35

Location: Riverchapel, Co. Wexford

Weight: 17st 9lb

Colm (35) is from Riverchapel in Co Wexford. He is married to Catherine and they have two young children Thomas (8) and Aoife (5). He spent most of his life working in financial services and is now a carer for his five-year-old daughter who has NF (Neurofibromatosis), a condition that registers her clinically blind.

Colm spends a lot of time at home looking after the children and bringing Aoife to hospital visits in Dublin, but he relies on fast food to keep him going.

He wants to get fit and healthy so that he can be there for his children for the foreseeable future.

What made you decide to apply for Operation Transformation? 

I have tried every other thing you can think of over the last 10 years to get the weight off. Some of them worked, others didn’t. The times I have lost weight I never managed to keep it off more than a few months. Looking at operation transformation over the years I noticed they didn’t solely focus on the calories in vs calories out but paired this with efforts to have the leaders transform themselves mentally also. I think this is what I have missed on all my failed attempts and it’s something that is difficult to find help for around weight loss. I reached the point that if it meant going on tv with my shirt off to overcome my weight issues that is what I was willing to do. I’m willing to do anything at this point to beat this for good.

Why do you think you’d make a good OT leader?

I believe a represent a massive demographic of young family men that have fallen victim to unhealthy eating habits and are struggling to come back from it. With a little direction for the experts on the show I will grab the ball with both hands and finally put this issue behind me, along the way I hope to become a positive force for change in others as If I can do this anyone can!

In what ways has your weight held you back to date?

I would be a lot more socially reserved than I used to be. I find myself avoiding a lot of social situations that might highlight the fact I am obese, whether that be a social gathering for drinks, or social activities like go karting etc. I have missed out on life experiences that if I had my weight under control I could’ve been looking back on fondly rather than regretting what I have become. There probably aren’t too many things that happen in my day to day life where I don’t feel a bit of anxiety about how I look, something as simple as a trip to the shops or going to work can result in me over thinking If I look huge in what I am wearing.

What difference are you hoping OT would make to your life?

I am hoping OT can help me figure out how to change my mind-set for the long-term. I enjoy being active but my relationship with food is terrible. If I am to be completely honest I think I have food addiction problem, this coupled with the fact I can be impulsive and sometimes lazy has me on the path I am currently on. I am hoping OT can help me tackle my mental issues around food that will result in a permanent result rather than a quick fix and rebound months from now.

What do your family and friends think of you applying for the series?

Everyone has been super supportive, anyone that knows me knows how long I have been looking to overcome my weight issues. I am always trying something different to lose weight. They respect the fact I am willing to bare all on tv to achieve my result and will help me stay on course along the way, not to mention those out of my friends that will follow my progress along the way and look to drop a few pounds themselves! Something like this would be impossible to do without the support of my loved ones and friends.

 

  • LEONARD, GEORGINA

Age: 39

Location: Swords, Co. Dublin

Weight: 15st 12.5lb

Georgina Leonard (39) is a sales support executive from Swords, Co Dublin. She lives in her own apartment with her flatmate of 13 years, Eddie, and they both have a love of fast food. She has been in a relationship with her partner Gavin for three and a half years.

She will celebrate her 40th birthday in December, but she has probably cooked less than 40 meals in her whole lifetime, as she is self-declared as “useless” in the kitchen.

Georgina openly confesses to relying on her parent’s home cooked foods or take aways over her own culinary skills.

She is known for pretending to go to the gym and coming back as if she has had a workout and throwing her gym clothes into the washing machine (still clean).

As her weight piled on in recent years she has lost her self esteem and is hoping that losing weight, learning how to cook and getting fit will help her to get her confidence back.

What made you decide to apply for Operation Transformation? 

I started to complete the form last year but didn’t complete it I didn’t feel ready actually I didn’t think I needed to which was so wrong as my eating. 

got worse and my gym visits got lower they actually went to zero visits so I am 100 ready for this and to give it my all.

Why do you think you’d make a good OT leader?

I would make a good leader because I am starting from scratch as I can’t cook and don’t really exercise but I am 100% committed to getting fit and healthy and hopefully 

this will filter through to my family and friends 🙂 

In what ways has your weight held you back to date?

if I’m going on a night out I will have to have a few day’s notice just so I know I have something to wear that fits I can’t go out on short notice

What difference are you hoping OT would make to your life?

Healthy eating would be a Key thing for me and to have the confidence to get up and go to the gym ad wear nice dresses and feel comfortable in them and also to know that my family/Friends are doing it with me so they are healthy too! 

What do your family and friends think of you applying for the series?

They think it’s great however they know what I am like for exercising and bad eating so I am hoping to prove them all wrong and they are really excited about getting on board with me. 

 

  • MALONE, LEONA

Age: 38

Location: Naas, Co. Kildare

Weight: 20st 2lb

Leona (38) works as a primary school teacher in Holy Child Primary School, Naas. She lives with her husband Ollie (35) and their two sons Conor (4) and Harry (2) in Naas, Co. Kildare.

Leona and Ollie have been together for 17 years and married for 7 years. They met through friends, started dating and have been together ever since. Ollie works as a secondary school teacher in Kings Hospital in Palmerstown and is heavily involved in sports in the school. They used to rent an apartment in Clane but recently bought a house in Naas, which they are still trying to settle into.

Between 2013 and 2015 Leona and Ollie lost two babies. Jack was still born at 38 weeks and Rory was still born at 19 weeks. The two babies are buried together in Glasnevin in the little angels plot.

Having suffered such heartache and bereavement they are so happy to have their 2 healthy boys. Working full time and having the boys means life is extremely busy and Leona admits to having not fully dealt with their earlier losses. She turned to food for comfort though all of this which has left her the heaviest she has ever been. While she is very grateful for what she has now she is deeply unhappy with her weight and herself.

Leona wants to learn a new way of living and teach her children how to live a happy healthy life. Ollie is quite fit and will support her 100%. Leona has a great support system in place and feels it’s now she needs to start thinking about her future with her boys and she wants to be around to see them grow up.

What made you apply for Operation Transformation?

I applied for OT because I have gotten to the stage where I am so unhappy with my weight and I needed the direction to help me on the road to becoming healthier and fitter. I want to be happier and my weight is getting me super down. I just don’t know where to start. I need some guidance. A friend was a leader last year and I felt so proud of his achievements and thought you know what that’s what I need. He was a huge inspiration to me. I also want to be a good role model for my 2 wee boys. I want to be able to keep up with them, and be more active with them. We spend our weekends down in the local GAA club at hurling and football training and I don’t want to be the fat Mum on the sidelines. 

Why do you think you’d make a good OT leader?

I think I am a good communicator and have the ability to build up good relationships with people. I love to talk and chat and listen. I am honest and trustworthy. I wear my heart on my sleeve and with me what you see is what you get. I feel like I can be an inspiration to others, who feel the same as me and don’t know where to begin. I am a helper and want to try and make a difference wherever I can. The difference this time being that I include myself in the process and help myself too.

In what ways has your weight held you back to date?

 My weight has held me back in so many ways. It has slowed me down and my bones and joints ache on a daily basis. I am constantly tired and I know that if I just get up and go for a walk it would help but the tiredness always gets the better of me. I just find all daily activities a struggle.

What difference are you hoping OT would make to your life?

I hope to feel more energetic and become healthier and fitter. I don’t want to be unhappy in myself anymore. As I’ve learned in the past few years, life is way too short and I need to start looking after myself, so that I can life the best life I can for me and my boys.

What do your family and friends think of you applying for the series?

 They are all so proud and super excited. They are all behind me 100% and all willing to join in the programme with me. I’ve had offers of people joining me for walks and runs. My colleagues have been amazing too and so supportive. I’m so lucky to have such a fabulous and supportive and encouraging circle of family and friends.

 

  • MURPHY, PAUL

Age: 41

Location: Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo

Weight: 20st

Paul (41) is the manager and owner of Murphy’s Hotel in Tubbercurry. He lives with his wife Sonya (39) and two children Ava (8) and Ethan (1). The hotel is a family run business and has been in the Murphy family for 40 years. Paul and Sonya have been married for a year but have been together for 12 years.

When Paul was younger his parents ran a pub and shop, which he would often help out in. Within the shop there was a butchers that his father would work in. In December 1989 his father Barthley was working and nicked a small cut on his hand. The next day Paul remembers his father saying that he didn’t feel very well. Within a couple of days Barthley was in hospital and Paul was by his bedside. He remembers his father telling him he was going to die and that he had to be the man of the house and look after everyone. A day later Paul’s father passed away from septicaemia from the cut in his hand. Paul was 12-years-old at the time and his younger brother Barry was 3 and Brian was 1.

Last year Paul and his brother Barry bought the business from their Mum. His brother Barry is one of the chefs in the restaurant and Paul manages the running of the business.

Since getting married and having another child Paul wants to change his lifestyle and start looking after his health. He is just 2 years older than his father was when he died so he doesn’t want to leave his wife alone with 2 children. At the moment Paul’s health is fine but he is well aware of the health conditions he is setting himself up for if things don’t change.

What made you decide to apply for Operation Transformation? 

I have watched Operation transformation for a number of years and recognized the professional level of support that was there for the leaders to achieve their goals.  I am now at a stage in my life where I’m ready to look for that support and accept it with open arms. 

Why do you think you’d make a good OT leader?

I believe that people will be able to relate to me and that I hope that they will follow me on my journey to a better health and fitness lifestyle. 

In what ways has your weight held you back to date?

Self-confidence and body image have been major factors.  I have been hiding all my life and not accepted my weight. 

What difference are you hoping OT would make to your life?

New chapter in my life, dawn of a new beginning, Indestructible! I just can’t wait to get started. I feel alive.   

What do your family and friends think of you applying for the series?

I didn’t tell anyone initially that I had applied for it, I told my wife and my mother and I believe they were shocked that I had the courage to go ahead take on this challenge.  

 

  • NEILL, AIDEN

Age: 30

Location: Rush, Co. Dublin

Weight: 21st 11lb

Aiden Neill (30) is a merchandise administrator from Rush in Co Dublin and is married to Keva. They have two little girls, Molly (4) and Megan (3). Aiden has battled with his weight all of his life and weighed in at his heaviest in 2012 when he tipped the scales at 26 stone.

He got a scare in February this year when he went for an operation on his neck and overheard the hospital staff discuss how safe it was to put him under an anaesthetic, because he was so heavy. That made him realise that his weight issue was becoming a bigger problem than just not being able to buy clothes to fit him or being breathless going up the stairs.

He admits that he hasn’t enjoyed a sun holiday since the children came along as he is so self-conscious about his appearance and he knows that his lack of motivation is upsetting his wife and causing problems in their marriage.

Aiden fears that if he doesn’t lose weight now, while he is still young enough to enjoy his children growing up, he may not be there for them in the future.

What made you decide to apply for Operation Transformation? 

I have tried every other thing you can think of over the last 10 years to get the weight off. Some of them worked, others didn’t. The times I have lost weight I never managed to keep it off more than a few months. Looking at operation transformation over the years I noticed they didn’t solely focus on the calories in vs calories out but paired this with efforts to have the leaders transform themselves mentally also. I think this is what I have missed on all my failed attempts and it’s something that is difficult to find help for around weight loss. I reached the point that if it meant going on tv with my shirt off to overcome my weight issues that is what I was willing to do. I’m willing to do anything at this point to beat this for good.

Why do you think you’d make a good OT leader?

I believe a represent a massive demographic of young family men that have fallen victim to unhealthy eating habits and are struggling to come back from it. With a little direction for the experts on the show I will grab the ball with both hands and finally put this issue behind me, along the way I hope to become a positive force for change in others as If I can do this anyone can!

In what ways has your weight held you back to date?

I would be a lot more socially reserved than I used to be. I find myself avoiding a lot of social situations that might highlight the fact I am obese, whether that be a social gathering for drinks, or social activities like go karting etc. I have missed out on life experiences that if I had my weight under control I could’ve been looking back on fondly rather than regretting what I have become. There probably aren’t too many things that happen in my day to day life where I don’t feel a bit of anxiety about how I look, something as simple as a trip to the shops or going to work can result in me over thinking If I look huge in what I am wearing.

What difference are you hoping OT would make to your life?

I am hoping OT can help me figure out how to change my mind-set for the long-term. I enjoy being active but my relationship with food is terrible. If I am to be completely honest I think I have food addiction problem, this coupled with the fact I can be impulsive and sometimes lazy has me on the path I am currently on. I am hoping OT can help me tackle my mental issues around food that will result in a permanent result rather than a quick fix and rebound months from now.

What do your family and friends think of you applying for the series?

Everyone has been super supportive, anyone that knows me knows how long I have been looking to overcome my weight issues. I am always trying something different to lose weight. They respect the fact I am willing to bare all on tv to achieve my result and will help me stay on course along the way, not to mention those out of my friends that will follow my progress along the way and look to drop a few pounds themselves! Something like this would be impossible to do without the support of my loved ones and friends.

 

  • O’BRIEN, SIOBHÁN

Age: 30

Location: Clonsilla, Dublin 15

Weight: 17st 4.5lb

Siobhan (30) resides alone and works as a secondary school teacher in Luttrelstown Community College. She grew up in Clonshaugh and is the youngest of three girls in a very close family. Her Mum Rita and Dad Joe have always been very supportive of her and this time is no different.

Growing up Siobhan was always very sporty and involved in everything in her community. During secondary school and University she was an Irish dancer, a keen footballer and was on the Irish Taekwondo team.

During the seven years since finishing college Siobhan’s weight has fluctuated. Being a teacher and telling kids about healthy living and the importance of activity Siobhan feels she is being a hypocrite and the children in her school don’t take her seriously.  Part of their Junior Cycle reform is about teaching kids how to be social and confident and how can she teach them about this when she isn’t fulfilling them herself. She wants to be a good influence on the children’s lives by showing them how to live healthy instead of just telling them.

Siobhan is ready to make a change and she has a very supportive family behind her. She hopes she can break down the barrier she has built up over the years and get back to being happy in herself. Her ambition is to run the Dublin City Marathon.

What made you decide to apply for Operation Transformation? 

I have been feeling stuck in a rut for a long time now and it was starting to affect my everyday life so when my sister suggested applying for Operation Transformation I thought I would go for it.

Why do you think you’d make a good OT leader?

I am strong willed and determined. I feel I would be relatable to young female professionals who may be in a similar position and more than anything I want to set a good example for my students.

In what ways has your weight held you back to date?

It has stopped me from going on a trip of a lifetime. I am hoping to get in shape and do that this summer.

What difference are you hoping OT would make to your life?

I am hoping it will set me on a healthier pathway for life that I can continue after OT. I’m hoping to feel healthier, happier and regain the confidence I have lost along the way.

What do your family and friends think of you applying for the series?

I think they will be stunned because for most, reading this, will be the first time they are hearing about it. My family are very proud and can’t wait to support me. They are looking forward to joining in and leading healthier lifestyles too.

 

  • O’GARA, CLIONA

Age: 34

Location: Charlestown, Co. Mayo

Weight: 15st 10lb

Cliona (34) works as a social care worker in Mayo. She lives with her husband Fergal (34) and their daughters Naoise (20 months ), Grace (6 months) and son Ross (4) in Charlestown, Co. Mayo.

Cliona and Fergal have been together for 8 years and have been married for 5 years. Fergal works for the traffic corp with An Garda Siochana and Cliona works with children in a residential home. Both Fergal and Cliona work shift work and really enjoy their jobs. Cliona is currently on maternity leave and will return to work in December.

In 2014 while pregnant with her first child Cliona’s mother Breege was diagnosed with a sarcoma (cancer of the muscle) on her leg.  A full procedure was done to remove the tumour and they thought that was the end of it. A short while after her mother was referred for a full MRI, which showed that the cancer was actually in most of her organs. Breege passed away in 2016 and this left a huge hole in their family.

Cliona lost herself and has still not learned how to deal with her mum’s passing. She admits to never having a weight issue until she met her husband. She was very active and even remained playing GAA until she was pregnant.

With 3 young children Cliona wants to be a good role model for them and teach them a healthy and active way of living. She wants to get back out meeting her friends whom she has pulled away from over the years due to a lack of confidence. She wants to be happy and healthy and remember her mum as she was when she was alive not the way she was when she was fighting her cancer.

What made you decide to apply for OT? 

I’m stuck in a rut, in bad habits and I need to change so my whole family have the best possible future health wise. Now is the time.

Why do you think you would make a good leader?

I’m motivated when I’m committed to something. I’ll give it 100% and although it will be hard, I want to put in that hard work to get healthy again and inspire others.   

In what ways has your weight held you back to date?

I avoid social situations as much as possible. I hate the way I look at the moment and shopping for clothes brings me to tears.

What difference are you hoping OT would make to your life?

It would literally change everything. My mind-set. How I use food for comfort. I’d definitely be thinking I could achieve my long-term goals after it.   

What to your family and friends think of you applying for the series?

Honestly, I’d have to say shocked. They are all so so supportive but I think they never imagined that I’d admit I’m overweight and things need to change so it’s a huge step.

 

  • O’NEILL, DES

Age: 42

Location: Ferns, Co. Wexford

Weight: 19st

Father of three Des O’Neill (42) lives in Ferns, Co. Wexford with his wife Caroline (39) and their 3 children Saoirse (8), Micheál Og (6) and Ciarán (5). Des runs his own business with brother Michael, which provides accountancy training and consultancy.

Des loved playing hurling and Gaelic football with his local club, Ferns St Aidan’s and also played on the Wexford County team at minor level and under 21. Des has been struggling with his weight for a long time, at 21 he quit playing regular hurling and Gaelic football and by the time he turned 30 in 2006 his weight had ballooned to over 17 ½ stone.

He tackled the weight through diet and exercise and lost 5 ½ stone training for the Dublin City Marathon in 2006. In recent years though Des’s weight has crept back up and his children now comment openly about ‘Daddy’s belly’. Des is embarrassed about his weight gain and over the last 10 years he feels it becoming increasingly isolating.

Des was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes last year, he is not currently on any medication. Caroline, Des’s wife, is concerned about his health, with three young children to look after and his own business to run he needs to put his health first.

Des wants to reverse his Type 2 Diabetes and would love to do the Dublin Marathon again. Des also would love to return to the play for his local club so his children can see him on the field one last time.

 What made you decide to apply for Operation Transformation? 

The time had come to tackle my weight and health for once and for all. I had tried so many different diets and fads. I was fed up of being overweight and not being the best version of myself. I was sitting in an airport in Toronto planning how I was going to transform my health when I got home. I was writing my 6-month plan in my journal. I looked at my phone and was catching up on Irish news, reading the independent.ie App and I saw an article on Operation Transformation and started the application process. I see Operation transformation as a way to make lasting change.

Why do you think you’d make a good OT leader?

I think I would be a good OT Leader because there are lots of small business owners out there who struggle with their health, balancing business, marriage and parenting in a busy life. It is not just about business owners though If I can do this and transform my life I believe I can help busy 40 something parents transform their lives too. I know this is not going to be easy and I know doing this in the public eye is going to be challenging but I am a competitive person and like challenges, so I truly believe I will get results and inspire others to do the same.

In what ways has your weight held you back to date?

When you are 80lbs overweight you are held back in so many ways. Some are really obvious but some or not so obvious until you sit down and really think about it.

Everything is harder. Your self-esteem and self-confidence being undermined impacts on your thinking and positivity. That impacts on your personal life, your parenting, your relationships and business. I can’t even quantify what that has cost me in recent years.

How people look at you impacts on the opportunities you could otherwise create in your life. I don’t even know what opportunities I have lost due to being overweight and not having the same level of vitality and energy I would have if I was my ideal weight with ideal nutrition and optimal health.

How would a normal person be held back if they carried and 80lb knapsack on their back every day? I used to carry a 130lb extra weight knapsack, now it is only an 80lb one. I have been stuck here for a long time now. Imagine what my life will be like with that weight off my shoulders.

What difference are you hoping OT would make to your life?

I am hoping that OT will help me create the habits and routines that will enable me to integrate health into my busy life. I am hoping that 12 to 18 months from now I will have achieved “Fat Freedom” using the routines and transformations of OT to carry me through to my ideal weight goal of 175lbs. Much more than a number on a scales, the real difference for me is to have the health, vitality and confidence I want to be the best I can be. You could just describe it as happiness.

I am hoping that my transformation will for me to be the best I can be for my children, my wife, my family, my friends, my business and my community.

When I do this, it will transform my relationship with my kids and my wife and if it does that what else really matters.

It is also about my impact on the world though. My why is to help busy business owners build successful and rewarding businesses and my health transformation is a key part of that. If helping business owners build outstanding businesses is my why I need to lead by example not only from a business perspective but also from a personal perspective. Walk the walk and not just talk the talk.

What do your family and friends think of you applying for the series?

My family and friends are extremely supportive of me applying for the series and they know that it will work really well with my competitive nature. They also know that once I make a commitment to do something I do not let people down. They understand that I have made this commitment to myself in the past but now making it in public will ultimately help me get the result and create the habits and routines that I want and need.

Yes of course my wife and myself have had a number of conversations about the potential impact this will have on our kids and on our relationship. We know that this is going to be seriously tough. We believe that we can manage the process for our family and that the transformation for us will outweigh any challenge that we may encounter on the way.

For years I have struggled with this. The time is now. This is the time for me to get this done. As I sat in that airport planning how I was going to do this and transform my life, (like I had so many times previously) Operation Transformation appearing on my phone in the way it did felt like a sign that was saying this is the way.

Everyone’s family and friends just want the best for their loved one when they face challenges in their lives. My family and friends want me to be happy and to realise my true potential. I am lucky to have their full support in everything I do. When it comes to something like this, they have seen me struggle with balancing my health for the last 15 years. When I go all in I know they will too.

 

  • RAMSAY, JACINTA

Age: 49

Location: Claregalway, Co. Galway

Weight: 15st 5.5lb

Jacinta (49) works as a part time shop assistant in her sister’s shop. She lives with her husband Clive (50) and their 3 children Alex (16) Jack (14) and Adam (12) in Claregalway, Co. Galway.

Adam, Jacinta’s youngest son, was born with a heart defect (tetralogy of fallot and absent pulmonary valve), which meant he had to have open-heart surgery at 9-months-old. Adam has lived a very active lifestyle growing up but he recently had an appointment with a cardiologist consultant in Crumlin hospital and they have told Jacinta that he will need the surgery sooner rather than later. This has been a source of worry for Jacinta over the years. The operation will take place in the next 3 months.

Jacinta comes from a big family and she is the second youngest of 9 kids. Her parents Peggy and Jimmy have both passed away. They were both 86 when they died but 10 years apart. Three of Jacinta’s siblings have passed away, her second oldest brother Gerry also passed away following a heart attack at the age of 50 in 2003. Her oldest brother Martin died in 2012 at the age of 61 having suffered a number of heart attacks. Her sister Ann had a stroke in 2014 at the age of 57 and suffered brain damage. Ann spent time in Drogheda hospital and then moved to a nursing home as she needed round the clock care. She passed away in February 2018.

Having three active kids means she is constantly on the go and doing everything for everyone else. She has decided that she needs to make time for herself and start looking after herself.

 What made you decide to apply for Operation Transformation? 

I guess I am always on about the weight that I have put on over the last few years …how unhealthy I feel and how, no matter what diets I’ve tried … although yes I’d loose weight….. the moment I stop I’d pile it back on… plus a bit more ….. such diets are not sustainable .. I finaly understand now that it’s not diet alone but it’s a life change I need! ! Over the last few years my sisters Susan and Carmel mentioned to me that I should apply for Operation Transformation (I guess they are worried about my health) .. but I thought that wound be just so far out of my reach I put it out of my mind. Then one night I was out with my work cologues and again I was again commenting on my weight and how I felt blown up like a “Harvest Frog” when one of the girls Aisling said to me.. You should apply for OP .. then they all joined in saying ya you’d be perfect for that and we would all follow you. I replied that my sisters keep saying that to me also… I guess that’s when I thought “ya know what, im gonna go for it” (brave that Lycra belly top ).. I made the call to the OP number that following morning and it started from there.. best decision of my life!!!

Why do you think you’d make a good OT leader?

I absolutely know I’d make a good leader.. I’m ready for this.. so many of my family and friends have said me “oh, you’d be brilliant at that and we would support you 100%”  .. I’m a peoples person..  I’m outgoing ..and totally ready for this challenge now!!!

In what ways has your weight held you back to date?

Apart from being overweight and hating the way I look now .. its the health side of things that really worries me. There is such a horrific heart disease issue in my family and I already have blood pressure issues … I’m a perfect candidate for a heart attack or stroke.

What difference are you hoping OT would make to your life?

I mentioned before that I’ve tried all the diets .. I’d loose weight .. then put it back on. It’s a vicious circle. I believe that OP, with the help of all the different types of expert … and the different types of help id get in the different areas.. like physical as well as physiological (which has a big part to play in weight loss I think) would give me the tools to sort my weight problem out once and for all.. no going back!!

What do your family and friends think of you applying for the series?

They are just so delighted that I am finally doing something like this for myself .. they are backing me 100%.. if anything..  it’s been a great confidence boost for me to actually hear what my family, friends and work colleagues think of me and how they are just so confident that I will achieve my goals..

It’s a great feeling!!

 

  • SWAYNE, PAMELA

Age: 36

Location: Youghal, Co. Cork

Weight: 13st 12.5lb

Mother of 4 Pamela (36) lives in Youghal with husband Sean (36) and children Ally (18), Leigh (10), Lilly (7) and Mickie (4). She works part time in the Amber Petrol Station in Youghal.

Pamela found out she was pregnant at the age of 17 with Ally just months after she lost her father in February 1999. Dad, Thomas, passed away from lung cancer only 3 weeks after he was diagnosed. Though the year was extremely difficult for the whole family Pamela had Ally in April and still sat her Leaving Cert in June. Since then though Pamela hasn’t really given herself time to deal with the loss of her dad.

Pamela has tried all kinds of diets in the past but she’s never managed to keep the weight off. Pamela is also an emotional eater so when she’s in good form she goes all out with proper family dinners but if she’s had a bad day she reaches for the easy option. She loves food and the more convenient the better, chipper, Chinese takeaways, jambons, hotdog lattice, crisps, chocolate anything that’s hassle free. Pamela does not want her children to follow in her footsteps.

Pamela comes across as bubbly and outgoing but she hides how she really feels about her weight. The big turning point came recently when listening to ‘This is Me’ from the Greatest Showman with daughter Lily in the car, she said ‘Mum, that’s you’.

Pamela has come to the stage in her life that she just wants to tackle her weight once and for all. With 4 years to go to the next big birthday Pamela wants to be 40, fit and healthy!

 What made you decide to apply for Operation Transformation? 

(Last year’s leaders) Sarah (O’Callaghan) and Davy (Cryan) made me take the step to apply I can’t believe there results and I want them for me 

Why do you think you’d make a good OT leader?

I’m very relatable too. I’m a women and a mam. I don’t just want people to follow me I want them to join me on my journey .if I do get this I’d like to think a lot more people would benefit from it not just me

In what ways has your weight held you back to date?

I’m not as active as I’d like to be. I’ve always wanted to run but never been in the right body frame 

What difference are you hoping OT would make to your life?

I’d hope to be fit and fab for my 40th in three and a half years …a happier healthier lifestyle to look and feel great

What do your family and friends think of you applying for the series?

My family and friends are out there on their own and been the best support system anyone could wish for I didn’t realise how much so until I applied for this every one of them are saying it’s my time I hope their right

 

  • TIERNEY, JEAN

Age: 33

Location: Bruff, Co. Limerick

Weight: 15st 1lb

Proud Limerick lady Jean (33) lives in Holycross with fiancé Paddy (35). She works as a Sales and Marketing Manager for nightclub, House in Limerick. They got engaged on April Fool’s Day because they are both practical jokers and knew no one would believe them.

In January of this year she gave birth to a little girl they called Sloane (warrior). Her first pregnancy was found to be an ectopic pregnancy so doctors were monitoring her but again she developed complications at seven months. The baby girl was born and she seemed perfect but suddenly she developed what they thought was a serious lung disorder. The hospital tried their hardest to save Sloane and even contacted a team of specialists in Sweden where Sloane was flown to seek further medical help. Alas in Sweden doctors discovered Sloane had a heart defect they were unable to treat and she was flown home to spend her last days with Jean, Paddy and their family. Sloane passed away at 5 days old.

Jean said the hospital support system in the Maternity Department in Limerick was amazing but she piled on the weight after her baby died and cannot get control of it. Her biggest problem is emotional eating, she would have no problem walking or doing physical activity but she can’t stop eating once she gets upset. She has spoken out publicly about losing her little girl to help other mothers cope with miscarriage but she knows that her eating is because of what has happened.

Jean wants to try to move on now thankful that she got to hold her little girl for a little while. Jean now wants to lose the weight and get fit to enjoy her wedding day and hopefully start a family at some stage

What made you decide to apply for Operation Transformation? 

I had a little girl in January who unfortunately passed away a few days later. I am an emotional eater. And since then I put on 2 stone. Unfortunately, I had a miscarriage in September, and thought to myself I cannot afford to emotionally eat again. I already had lost a lot of body confidence because I still had the effects of post pregnancy. 

I wasn’t sleeping at nights and I saw OT been advertised. I thought that it would give me something to focus on as the coming months are probably going to be tough emotionally- hint I thought my emotional eating my take over again ha ha. Also, I have spoken quite openly about my experiences and hope that OT could help me, but maybe I could help so many other people going through the same thing as child loss is a subject that still isn’t openly talked about.

Why do you think you’d make a good OT leader?

When I set my mind to something there is no stopping me. If I was an OT leader well then, many others would depend on me and I couldn’t let them down. Even though this year has been tough, I think that I have taken a different approach in how I have handle it. Do not get me wrong, there are days when taking on the world feels a little tough, but I have learnt that it is ok, and am just great-full for each morning that I wake up and breath.

I have a very bubbly personality, and a positive outlook on life. I try to look at the glass half full instead of half empty. But as I said, I am a realist and this is sometimes hard. I would hope by been a leader, that I can show people it is ok to find days that are tough to not be hard on yourself. That as a leader I can learn the tools to not emotional eat and hopefully someone else can benefit from seeing how I hopefully would be successful at that

In what ways has your weight held you back to date?

I don’t like to dress up anymore. I will find any excuse to be able to stay at home so I can wear my pjs or leggings. I dread the thought of any functions. Plus, due to having only recently suffered the miscarriage, I feel like my tummy is still round, and recently on 2 separate occasions someone asked me when I was due!! As you can imagine this was extremely tough on me. So, I usually wear a scarf now as it will cover my tummy.

What difference are you hoping OT would make to your life?

I am getting married next year (don’t have a date yet as that is in my lovely partner’s hands ha ha), but I want to feel body confident again. I hope that OT would give me the tools to deal with the emotional eating. I hope it gives me something to focus on over the next few months, and give me the distraction that may be needed. The best difference OT could make is helping me lose weight, cause hopefully someday I may be lucky to conceive again and I want to be in the best possible health.

What do your family and friends think of you applying for the series?

They think I am mad!! No, they are so supportive of me. They actually all laughed when I said it, but said they weren’t one bit surprised, as I am capable of anything. On the first night, the OT team came down to meet me, they couldn’t get over the number of friends and family I had their supporting me. I am extremely lucky that I have an amazing support network. Of course, they worry that I will be ok, but they say I would make a great leader and would be so relatable. 

 

  • TUOHY, ALISTER

Age: 31

Location: Knocknacarra, Co. Galway

Weight: 17st 11.5lb

Alister (31) works as an Insurance manager and lives with his fiancé Deirdre (30) and her daughter Saoirse (9) and their daughter Ciara (7 months) in Galway. Alister is originally from Athlone and moved to Galway after meeting Deirdre.

Alister and Deirdre met online 5 years ago and chatted for a couple of months. When they went on their first date they hit it off straight away and are now engaged to be married next November. Saoirse was 4 when they got together and she now calls him dad.

Growing up Alister was never interested in sports. Even though he didn’t play sports he never had a weight problem, as he would have cycled everywhere in Athlone. He admits that the day he started putting on weight was the day he bought a car.

Self confessed secret eater Alister would call his car his “secret place” and this is where a lot of his secret eating would happen. He moonlights as a pizza delivery man and while doing his deliveries at the weekends, Alister would often eat a pizza for his dinner or whatever was going to waste that night. His car would usually be full of take-away boxes and sweet wrappers.

With their wedding a year away Alister wants to lose weight and feel confident on the day. He also wants to teach his daughters how to live a healthy and active lifestyle so they never have to feel the way that he does about his body.

What made you decide to apply for Operation Transformation?

I decided to apply because I needed to make a massive life altering change. I have always attempted to change my ways but I failed even before I began. Operation Transformation is a drastic change that I need. 

Why do you think you’d make a good OT leader?

Part of my day to day job as a team manager is to motivate and encourage people. I believe as an OT leader I can do this for people who are in a similar situation as me. There are thousands of average joes out there like me with kids, jobs and a household to run trying to fit in healthy lifestyle.

In what ways has your weight held you back to date?

My weight has stopped me being the active dad that my kids and partner deserve. I have turned into a couch potato that would rather choose an hour of tv over an hour in the playground.

What difference are you hoping OT would make to your life?

I hope to achieve the tools and the skills to have a healthy and enjoyable balanced lifestyle

What do your family and friends think of you applying for the series?

They are unbelievable proud. They know I have always struggled with my weight and they can’t believe I have gone so far outside of my comfort zone to make a change.