A few months ago, gymnast and Olympic Medal winner McKayla Maroney opened up with allegations against former USA Gymnastics doctor, Larry Nassar.
Since the allegations broke, Nassar has been accused by over 140 women of sexual assault.
In 2016, Maroney agreed to an NDA and a $1.25 million settlement not to come out against Nassar. But with the influx of victims speaking out against the former doctor, Maroney also went after him, sharing her experiences, despite facing a $100,000 fine for speaking out.
Chrissy Teigen offered to pay Maroney’s fine for her.
The entire principle of this should be fought – an NDA to stay quiet about this serial monster with over 140 accusers, but I would be absolutely honored to pay this fine for you, McKayla. pic.twitter.com/lsBEgEqZpD
— chrissy teigen (@chrissyteigen) January 16, 2018
“The entire principle of this should be fought – an NDA to stay quiet about this serial monster with over 140 accusers,” wrote Teigen, “But I would be absolutely honored to pay this fine for you, McKayla.”
McKayla responded gratefully to Teigen’s show support and love,
“I’m shocked by your generosity, and I just want you to know how much hope your words bring to all of us! I just can’t get over the fact that someone I don’t personally know is sticking up for me, let alone a strong women that I’ve looked up to for years!
Nassar has been sentenced to 60 years prison, announced on his December 7th trial. On Friday, his sentencing will begin.
McKayla responded,
“Thank you Chrissy, you’re so inspiring and things are starting to change because of people like you. Just saying that was worth the decision to speak up regardless of a fine. You’re heart [is] pure gold. God bless. All my love, McKayla.”
The USA Gymnastics organization denies that they had any part in discouraging McKayla from speaking up, releasing this statement:
“USA Gymnastics has not sought and will not seek any money from McKayla Maroney for her brave statements made in describing her victimization and abuse by Larry Nassar, nor for any victim impact statements she wants to make to Larry Nassar at this hearing or at any subsequent hearings related to his sentencing. This has been her right and USA Gymnastics encourages McKayla and anyone who has been abused to speak out. USA Gymnastics remains focused on our highest priority — the safety, health and well-being of our athletes and creating a culture that empowers and supports them.”
We support McKayla and every other victim of sexual assault bravely sharing their stories with the world.
As for Nassar, enjoy the rest of your life in prison!