In a courageous act of vulnerability, Olympic champion Simone Adams has publicly accused former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar of sexual misconduct. This revelation adds her voice to a growing number of women who have bravely stepped forward with similar allegations against Nassar.
Adams shared her powerful statement on social media just a day prior to Nassar’s sentencing hearing for multiple counts of criminal sexual conduct. He is already serving a 60-year sentence for child pornography possession and faces additional charges related to first-degree sexual offenses against minors.
“Many of you see me as a joyful, lively individual,” she began her heartfelt message. “However, I have recently felt quite fractured. The more I attempt to silence the thoughts in my mind, the louder they become. I’m no longer afraid to share my truth.”
“I am among the numerous survivors who suffered sexual abuse at the hands of Larry Nassar,” she continued. “Speaking these words aloud was far more challenging than putting them on paper. There were many factors that made me hesitant to share my experience, but I have come to realize that it is not my fault.”
Adams elaborated on the horrors of experiencing abuse from someone in a position of authority. “Receiving any form of treatment from a trusted medical professional should never be labeled as ‘special’ treatment. This behavior is utterly unacceptable, repulsive, and abusive, especially from someone I was taught to trust.”
By sharing her story, Adams joins her fellow Olympic teammates, including Aly Thompson, Megan Foster, and Grace Lee, among over 140 women who have accused Nassar of years of abuse. Reflecting on her internal struggles, Adams expressed how she had previously blamed herself for the abuse. “I often wondered if I was too naive or if I was to blame. I now understand that the truth is no. It was not my fault. The guilt lies solely with Larry Nassar, USA Gymnastics, and others involved.”
The response to her message has been overwhelmingly supportive, with many advocating that survivors should be allowed to process their trauma in their own way, without needing to explain themselves.
Adams included the #MeToo hashtag in her post, standing in solidarity with survivors worldwide. She noted that hearing the experiences of others helped her understand that she is not to blame for her trauma. “Listening to the brave stories of my peers and other survivors has shown me that this harrowing ordeal does not define who I am. I am far more than this. I am unique, intelligent, talented, driven, and passionate. I am determined that my story will extend beyond this and I will persevere.”
Nassar faces a potential sentence ranging from 25 years to life in prison, which will follow his existing 60-year term. An estimated 88 victims are anticipated to speak during his forthcoming sentencing hearing, detailing how his betrayal as a physician has irrevocably altered their lives.
While Adams is undeniably a survivor, she remains committed to advocating for change to protect future generations of gymnasts. “We must understand how this could occur for such an extended period and to so many of us,” she emphasized. “It is imperative that we ensure this never happens again.”
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In summary, Simone Adams has taken a significant step in sharing her experience of sexual abuse by Larry Nassar, amplifying the voices of countless survivors. Her determination to foster change in the gymnastics community underscores the necessity of accountability and safety for young athletes.