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LODay 144 of being banned from the Olympic Training Center by the USOPC... and my last day. The USOPC wanted to ban me longer but certain people fought very hard behind the scenes and said this has gone on too long and should never have happened.
I didn’t fail a drug test. I didn’t commit any offense worthy of this kind of banishment.
What I did was speak up.
I needed treatment. Instead, they canceled it without warning, while I was dealing with a serious injury.
I was hurt while testing new bobsleds for Team USA.
I’ve represented the United States in three Olympic Games. I’ve NEVER received a single disciplinary mark in my 25 year career.
And yet, when I voiced my frustration about a serious injury being denied medical care
I was Punished. Denied care. thrown out.
There was no fair hearing. To this day this still have not interviewed the athletes who witnessed what happened only the employees.
They chose the version written by those in power, and accepted it without question.
This isn’t just about me. It’s about how easily institutions discard the very people they’re supposed to protect.
It’s about retaliation
Even if an athlete is under investigation, there is no justification none for withholding full access to medical care.
Punishment should never come at the expense of basic human rights.
I’m not posting this for attention. I’m posting it because too many athletes are afraid to.
And I never want an athlete to go thru what I went thru with The USOPC.
Thank you for everyone who has sent me a dm or a encouraging message during this time
And yes my lawyer will continue to fight for athletes rights and access to health care
#athletesdeservebetter #usopc
@lolojones
