The RTE Operation Transformation team paid an emotional tribute to former leader Sarah O’Callaghan during this week’s season finale.
Sarah, who appeared on the hit show in 2018, sadly passed away earlier this year. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2015, and after a lengthy illness, died surrounded by her loved ones.
Remembering Sarah, Kathryn paid tribute the ‘true leader’ and revealed her 2018 team of fellow leaders would be doing 5km in her honour.
“There was one memory that had a special resonance with the Operation Transformation family. Our 2018 leader Sarah O’Callaghan passed away last month, following her long battle with cancer,” she said.
Kathryn continued, “Sarah came to Operation Transformation after her initial cancer treatment left her struggling with her weight.
“Sarah was a true leader and this year, her fellow Operation Transformation 2018 leaders are doing their 5k in her memory.”
Her teammates revealed they always “had such a close bond” before adding, “We’re doing it for you Sarah. We’ll always be a team.”
Viewers were overcome with emotion, but felt it was a beautiful tribute to a wonderful woman.
Jesus I’m a blubbering wreck watching #OperationTransformation. Can’t stop thinking of Sarah and her family during this time, but so delighted for all this year’s leaders and what they’ve achieved in such exceptional circumstances!
— Julie Carney (@JulieCarney27) February 24, 2021
Lovely tribute to Sarah, I’m bawling 😭#OperationTransformation
— Susan (@susan8_oconnell) February 24, 2021
#OperationTransformation Although we will celebrate the current leaders success, this is tinged with sadness at the loss of Sarah, a very brave and strong leader. To look back at her journey is quite incredible.
— Hilary Band (@Hilzcat) February 24, 2021
Lovely tribute to Sarah, I’m bawling 😭#OperationTransformation
— Susan (@susan8_oconnell) February 24, 2021
Read more: Here’s how the leaders got on during this season of Operation Transformation