Cathal is the pride of Donegal after Operation Transformation success

Donegal man Cathal Gallagher has reached an amazing three stone and ten-pound weight loss after eight weeks on Operation Transformation.

The RTE lifestyle show concluded on a celebratory note on Wednesday, with Cathal and his fellow leaders stunning their family and friends with a catwalk show.

Looking dapper in a slick suit and peak cap, Cathal (48) danced his way through the studio, revealing a more active and energetic self.

Pride was the word best used to describe Cathal’s health transformation journey.

The Ballyshannon native was the heaviest leader to ever appear on the programme, but he stuck with his healthy eating and exercise plan to drop his weight from 26st 10lbs to 23st. He also gained huge levels of self-confidence.

“I’m proud of myself,” the dad-of-one stated.

“The highlight for me was starting to like myself again. It was a challenge, without a doubt, but I’m not afraid to be me anymore,” Cathal said.

Cathal’s efforts were commended by his co-workers, the expert panel and his wife Agi, who said she loved having an active family.

Cathal also made sure Donegal was well-represented during the Operation Transformation 5K at Phoenix Park.

After eight weeks of training, he expressed his disbelief that he was able to do something he said he never would have considered six months ago.

Roaring ‘Cmon Donegal!’ the popular paramedic kept the crowd spirits high during the run/walk.

After crossing the finish line he said: “That was such a buzz, it’s like a tsunami of love, it’s unbelievable.” 

He vowed to return the same race next year, only next time he’ll be running.

The 2019 finale revealed that this year’s Operation Transformation leaders shed a whopping 10 stone between them. Cathal’s journey was noted as one of incredible achievements as he always work to exceed targets and inspire others along the way.