Rachael Denhollander, an attorney and advocate, was the first to publicly accuse Larry Nassar of abuse. She dives into how a culture of secrecy in gymnastics enabled such horrific acts. Rachael reveals Nassar's manipulative tactics that misled parents while he abused young athletes. She discusses the role of enablers in allowing the abuse to continue and highlights her courage in speaking out. The conversation emphasizes the importance of belief, accountability, and the need for open dialogue about abuse to protect future generations.
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Late Start
Rachel Denhollander started gymnastics at 11, paying her own gym fees.
Inspired by Kerri Strug, she pursued her passion despite not being destined for greatness.
insights INSIGHT
Gymnastics Culture
Body image issues and abuse are pervasive in competitive gymnastics.
Rachel Denhollander's gym was a rare exception, but she knew of abusive practices elsewhere.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Isolation and Abuse
Larry Nassar isolated gymnasts from parents during treatments, including the abuse.
This isolation, a standard practice, prevented parents from witnessing his actions.
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My Story of Breaking the Silence and Exposing the Truth about Larry Nassar and USA Gymnastics
Rachael Denhollander
This book is a deeply personal and compelling narrative that shines a spotlight on the physical and emotional impact of abuse, why many survivors are reluctant to speak out, and what it means to be believed. It details Rachael Denhollander’s journey and her role in bringing Larry Nassar to justice, as well as her advocacy for protecting the vulnerable and pursuing justice. The book is grounded in moral clarity and biblical truth, and it addresses the broader cultural context of #MeToo and #ChurchToo.
How the culture of competitive gymnastics contributed to the commonplace physical and mental abuse of underage Olympic hopefuls.
How Nassar was able to manipulate the trust of parents while simultaneously abusing their children, unseen, just a few feet away using creepy sleight of hand techniques and misdirection like a masterful pedophile illusionist.
Why the same set of circumstances that make parents hesitate to believe that such abuse could be going on under their noses is the same set of circumstances that make such abuse possible -- and allows monsters like Nassar to get away with it for decades before their victims dare to speak out.
How Nassar was protected by numerous enablers in the organizations for which he worked, and why they may have chosen to take his word over the consistent allegations of countless victims.
Why Rachael was able to go public with the abuse that she herself endured from Nassar when others couldn't, and how this encouraged other victims to come forward.
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