Operation Transformation is back, so it's time to break out the leggings, start counting those steps and – most importantly – meet your new leaders!
Taking on a challenge like OT in the midst of one of the most globally challenging years in recent times is no mean feat, so you can guarantee this year's five leaders are made of tough stuff.
When many of us would – understandably – prefer to sit on the couch and eat our way into the new year, these leaders have stepped forward to make changes in their lives, and do it all on television.
Each day for the next few days, we'll reveal a new leader and tell you everything you need to know about them.
Sharon Gaffney
Age: 44
Occupation: Accountant
Location: Drimnagh, Co. Dublin
Weight: 15 stone
Born and raised in Drimnagh, and living just down the road from her parents, Sharon is deeply tied to her community. During the last few months, her mum has been a bedrock of support with the kids, but family has given her enormous comfort during what have been two very challenging years.
In 2014 she separated from her husband after being together for almost 20 years. Despite the separation, the remembrance of the previous years has affected Sharon more than she would have liked to admit.
During this time she had turned to food for comfort so her weight continued to increase. She also realised that her daughter Paige had to turned to food for emotional support.
Sharon has felt guilty about Paige's weight gain over the last couple of years, and has tried to her lose weight by getting her into a gym with a personal trainer but she feels like a hypocrite as she isn't doing anything to lose her weight.
Sharon works as an account for the Royal Victoria Eye and Ear hospital which is office-based work. When she gets to the office these days she normally takes the lift as she can't manage the stairs and then walks as fast as she can to her office so no one sees her.
Not only does Sharon want to be a leader for herself but her main drive for applying for the show is her daughter Paige. She wants to do this with her and show her that you can change your lifestyle to one that's healthy and happy. She wants to be active with her twin boys and not let anything or anyone hold her back in life.
