Filipino Olympic gymnast Levi Jung-Ruivivar posted a touching reel of her visit to the Philippines, where she connected with young gymnasts and learned about their journey.
Keep going, Levi!
In late January, Filipina Olympian Levi Jung-Ruivivar shared with the world that she has been struggling with an eating disorder, prompting her to take a break and focus on her recovery.
“I have decided to redshirt this season and take a brief leave of absence from Stanford (just the winter quarter) to heal from an eating disorder I have been struggling with,” she said in a heartfelt statement on Thursday, January 23.
Her brave announcement was met with overwhelming support from fellow Filipino Olympians Aleah Finnegan, Lauren Hoffman, and Sam Catantan, who all expressed their encouragement on social media.
READ: Olympian Levi Jung-Ruivivar reveals battle with eating disorder, takes break to recover
Though 2025 hasn’t started as she hoped, Levi continues to push forward, showing her resilience in the face of adversity.
Before her Olympic journey, Levi, along with her fellow Olympians Aleah and Emma Malabuyo, had a mission that reached far beyond competition. They were determined to visit the Philippines and inspire young gymnasts.
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In a recent Instagram post, Levi shared a touching reel of her trip to the Philippines, where she met young gymnasts who welcomed her with open arms.
The kids showed off their favorite routines and skills, sharing not only their talent but also their love for Filipino culture, including their beloved dish, sinigang.
One young gymnast, Sophia, left a lasting impression on Levi when she shared that Levi was her idol.
“What do you want to do when you grow up?” Levi asked.
“An architect or continue gymnastics just like you,” Sophia replied, leaving Levi deeply moved.
“That’s so sweet,” Levi responded, touched by Sophia’s words.
“You’re my idol,” Sophia added, further warming Levi’s heart.
As the youngest Filipino athlete on the Philippine Centennial Team in Paris 2024 at just 18 years old, Levi has already made history alongside Aleah and Emma as the first Filipina gymnasts in 60 years to reach the Olympic stage.
As Levi focuses on healing from her eating disorder, these precious moments serve as a reminder of the love and motivation she has ignited in the young gymnasts who look up to her as a role model.
With every step she takes in her recovery, Levi continues to be the inspiring “Ate” to these kids who see her as more than just a gymnast—but as a beacon.
Watch the full video here: