Because Olympic gymnast McKayla Maroney could be financially penalized her if she chooses to speak out about the sexual abuse she suffered at the hands of team’s former doctor, Larry Nassar, a number of celebrities are now coming forward saying they would help financially cover Maroney’s legal costs should she need it. Chief among them is Chrissy Teigan, who offered to pay the potentially $100,000 fine.
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
— christine teigen (@chrissyteigen) January 16, 2018
Maloney responded in a statement released by Manly.
“I’m not on social media, but I wish I was for this,” she said. “I’m shocked by you generosity and I 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 woman that I’ve looked up to for years!”
“Thank you Chrissy, you’re so inspiring and things are starting to change because of people like you,” she continued. “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.”
So far, though, the USA Gymnastics have claimed she would not be fined for speaking out about Nassar.
“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 his hearing or at any subsequent hearings related to his sentencing,” the organization told Us in a statement on Tuesday. “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.”
Nassar’s sentencing for these charges begins on Tuesday and is set to end on Friday, January 19. According to NBC News, nearly 100 victims will publicly give their accounts. (Photo: MediaPunch; via US magazine)
