Operation Transformation is back, which means it's time to break out the leggings, set your goals for the year ahead, and – most importantly – meet your new Leaders!
Viewers will once again follow five inspiring people from across the country as they take on a health and wellness plan with the aim of resetting and kick-starting a new chapter in their lives.
Following yesterday's reveal of Stephanie Bowden and Andrea Daly as the first OT 2023 Leaders, we can now reveal that Thomas Hynes and Lorraine Dempsey have also joined this year's show.
55-year-old Thomas Hynes is from Granard, Co Longford, where he now lives with his wife, Eileen, and their 11-year-old son, Harry.
Following a heart attack five years ago, Thomas has gone through a lot of rehab work to make his way to a full recovery. Now, he says he's ready to enjoy his 50s to the fullest.
Thomas ran and owned a successful dry-cleaning business. Unfortunately, like many businesses across the country, he was forced to close his doors during the pandemic. Never one to sit on his laurels, Thomas adjusted quickly and started his own food truck business with his brother-in-law in their town.
Kicking off 2023, Thomas wants to introduce a sustainable routine into his health and well-being as he moves into the next stage of his life.
Speaking on becoming a Leader, Thomas said: "A risk to my heart is a risk to my health and getting a healthy lifestyle is my motivation to becoming an Operation Transformation Leader in 2023."
Primary school principal Lorraine Dempsey lives in Ferns, Co Wexford, with her husband, Anthony, and their three children; Jack, Patrick, and Katie.
Lorraine loves her job and says that both her colleagues and pupils inspire her every day. However, with a very busy house and a busy life in school, Lorraine is juggling a lot.
Exercise and movement used to play a huge part in the mum of three's routine, but says she has fallen out of the habit in the last two years. Now that she is about to turn 43, she's ready to shift her focus and revitalise her own health and well-being.
Speaking on becoming a Leader, Lorraine said: "2023 is the year where I'm looking forward to prioritising my health and wellbeing making time for myself. 2023 is where I find myself again and enjoy making healthy choices with my family."
Thomas and Lorraine will also join Stephanie Bowden and Andrea Daly as this year’s OT leaders. The final remaining leader will be announced tomorrow.
Operation Transformation airs Wednesday 4th January at 21:30 on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player.
