The internet has been gripped by a clip of Olympic gymnast Sunisa “Suni” Lee weeping and being helped by USA Gymnastics physician Marcia Faustin. The video emphasizes the emotional and physical care that athletes need by showcasing a moving exchange between the athlete and her medical team.
Marcia Faustin, the USA Gymnastics Women’s National Team Physician and a family and sports medicine physician at UC Davis Health, can be seen in the video offering emotional support to Suni Lee. The video posted on Instagram by “Planet of Gymnastics,” was captioned: “The care and specific planning that has gone into @sunisalee’s comeback makes me so emotional. The new team doc wiping Suni’s happy tears away 🥹❤️🩹,” showcasing Lee and Faustin’s deep connection and mutual trust. The controversial past of USA Gymnastics, clouded by the misconduct of former physician Larry Nassar, stands in sharp opposition to this viral moment.
The headline of the newspaper regarding the former USA Gymnastics doctor who is allegedly the victim of abuse opens the footage, followed by the line, “The USAG team Dr really went from this…”. The scene changes to an emotional one, showing Lee crying, with the words “To this❤️” displayed. A new era of care and safety for gymnasts is expressed by Faustin wiping away her tears.
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The Instagram post highlights how important Dr. Faustin’s presence has been to Lee’s recovery. It states, “Both emotional and physical care and protection for the athletes. Helping them reach their goals even when facing medical challenges.” This is a far cry from the last period under Larry Nassar, who was sentenced to life in prison stemming from several charges of abuse.
Larry Nassar and USA Gymnastics’ tragic legacy
The horrific and protracted history of abuse involving Larry Nassar and USA Gymnastics is widely circulated. Nassar started his profession in the late 1970s and worked his way up to USA Gymnastics’ national medical coordinator in 1996. He misused his position for decades, taking advantage of hundreds of young athletes, many of who were Olympians. At least 265 women and girls were allegedly sexually assaulted by Nassar while receiving medical care. Parents and individuals in sports complained about him repeatedly, but for years his activities went unpunished.
Nassar was arrested following an investigation that was publicized in 2016 by the Indianapolis Star. He was accused of several charges of sexual assault along with having child pornography. Nassar received sentences ranging from 40 to 175 years in federal prison and 40 to 125 years in state prison for accusations of sexual assault before the end of 2017. Nassar was also given a 60-year sentence for using child pornography. His conviction was a historic turning point for USA Gymnastics, resulting in extensive reforms and heightened awareness of the safety and health of athletes.
The current approach can be summarized by Suni Lee’s touching exchange with Faustin. Lee encountered several difficulties before emerging as the 2020 Olympic all-around winner. Her medical team, particularly Faustin, has been a huge help in her continued efforts to overcome challenges and accomplish her objectives. Now, the athlete is working towards living her Paris dream.
