Operation Transformation has returned to our screens for a new season, and the show is already impressing viewers.
There has been plenty of excitement for the show’s return and the introduction of this year’s leaders, and fans were left impressed after the first episode.
With viewers praising new leader Andrea, in particular.
38-year-old Andrea Daly lives in Co Laois with her husband Joe and their three children Alex, Ryan and Masey. During last night’s episode, she opened up about the tragic death of her son Dylan.
Telling host Kathryn Thomas: “We got pregnant quite early. We were only together a couple of months when I found out I was pregnant with Dylan. Everyone was happy, it was the first grandchild. I was delighted, so thrilled.”
But at just three months old Dylan was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. Following the diagnosis, Andrea and Joe, who were in their early twenties became his full-time carers.
As she explained: “Years and years in and out of the hospital, he was peg fed, he never talked or walked, he sat in his wheelchair.”
“I thought I was going to be this mammy with this little boy running around and no. Things got harder as he got older. He used to get really bad pneumonia and would end up in the hospital again, The seizures were out of control.”
“It was tough but I’d give anything to have it again.”
Sadly, in January 2019, at the age of 13 Dylan passed away. Following this tragic loss, Andrea wants to make a change in her life and go on an adventure of discovery – not only for herself but for her family too. She knows Dylan will be with her every step of the way.
Andrea’s heartbreaking story resonated with viewers, who were quick to praise the Loais woman.
Jesus im in absolute bits here… The resilience of some ppl is unreal
Andrea 😔#OperationTransformation @OpTranRTE
— CROSSY (@CrossyTweets) January 4, 2023
Some fantastic leaders on Operation Transformation, Andrea however has absolutely stole my heart.
You are such an amazing woman, and you deserve all the success and love on this journey.
You got this ❤️ #OperationTransformation @OpTranRTE
— Paddy Cunningham (@PaddyCunningham) January 4, 2023
Blown away by Andrea’s story on #operationtransformation 💔 Really rooting for her. Good luck to all 5. Also, if everyone had half the kindness and compassion of @dreddiemurphy the world would be a better place ❤️
— Trish Cullen (@triciac475) January 4, 2023
I’m not crying, you are. Andrea you are AMAZING! I’m so glad you did go to the assessment day. This journey is going to incredible & you’ve the nation behind you. You’ll be an inspiration to so many people. #OperationTransformation
— Andrew Burke-Hannon (@AJBurke14) January 4, 2023
Fantastic group this year. Love Andrea, she is going to do amazing #operationtransformation
— Ciara (@ciaratweetshere) January 4, 2023
Andrea is just amazing What an inspirational & fantastic lady she is. Im sure Dylan is very proud of her & will be with her every step of the way 💕🧡#OperationTransformation
— @Aoifs123 (@Aoifs123) January 4, 2023
