The second Leader announced for Operation Transformation 2020 revealed she is doing the show to bring her “sexy” back.
Jean Kinahan, the youngest of 12 children, says the fact her daughter is getting married next year will inspire her on the RTE show.
The 49-year-old special needs assistant, from Tullamore, Co Offaly, said she does not want to walk down the aisle as a frumpy mother of the bride.
She added: “I’m thrilled. I’m in shock I can’t believe it.
“I’ve always wanted to do it for a while, but my daughter is getting married and I’m after just going through the menopause – well I’m in the middle of the menopause – but I really wanted to do it for Natasha, for my daughter’s wedding, just to look good and to feel special on her day.”
Jean, whose husband Podge is a courier for a domestic appliance company, has two children – Natasha, 25, and 23-year-old Jake who have both moved out of the home. Jean said her family, including her five sisters and six brothers, are “absolutely delighted”.
She added: “Everyone is going to be so supportive. I only found out yesterday evening [Monday]. It is just amazing. I can’t believe it like.
“I’m ready now definitely. I’m focused 100%. I really want this and I think it is a blessing. I am so lucky.”
It’s been a tumultuous year for Jean, who had her ovaries removed in March after doctors found a growth. She said she doesn’t feel sexy or feminine any more as she goes through the menopause and has had her confidence knocked.
Jean, who is 14st 9lbs, admits she has always struggled with her weight and revealed she has never eaten breakfast because she has always been too busy.
She said on a bad day she’ll eat all around her and has even been banned from the sweet shop by her husband.
RTE will reveal a new Operation Transformation Leader every day this week.
Jean will join Claire Beakhurst from Malahide, North Co Dublin, who was named on Monday.
