RTE viewers were left devastated after an emotional interview on The Late Late Show on Friday night.
The 2023 leaders for the newest season of Operation Transformation joined host Ryan Tubridy to share the stories of why they applied for the programme, with one woman's story particularly touched the nation's hearts.
Marie Clear, 32, who was born with Achondroplasia - a bone growth disorder that causes dwarfism - shared that her height makes her nervous to go on nights out with her friends.
She broke down in tears as she recounted frightening situations she has dealt with on nights out in Dublin including people taking videos of her or trying to pick her up.
The Tipperary native said: “I get so scared when that happens to me.”
Late Late Show viewers were in awe of her honesty and vulnerability as they praised the new leaders for opening up on the chat show.
One person, speaking about Marie, said: “Wasn’t planning on watching the Late Late and now I’m kinda levelled after hearing this ladies story”.
A second commenter wrote: “It’s devastating to hear Marie had to deal with that, what a woman”.
A third viewer added: “My goodness the sheer honesty from this lady is amazing. How anyone could mock [and] take photos from a person of small stature I'll never know. Some people need to have more respect [and] manners!”
Another person wrote: “People are w***ers. Jesus let people be.”
Other social media users highlighted the importance of talking about mental health struggles and dealing with weight problems.
One viewer commented: “These people are so brave. Addressing weight issues so publicly is a very difficult thing to do for most people. Well done all”.
A second person said: “I admire these brave people on #operationtransformation they give us all inspiration”.
A third user wrote: “I haven’t watched Operation transformation in many years but these people are such lights.
“I have to applaud anyone who is that honest and is willing to share some personal things like that. Fair play to them all.”
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