Filipina Olympian gymnast Levi Jung-Ruivivar candidly shares her recovery journey from an eating disorder, revealing that she is making progress and remaining resilient.
Filipina Olympian gymnast Levi Jung-Ruivivar has become a powerful symbol of resilience and bravery as she opens up about her recovery from an eating disorder.
On January 23, the Paris 2024 Olympian shared the difficult news that she had been battling an eating disorder, a challenge that led her to make the courageous decision to take a leave of absence to focus on her healing process.
READ: Olympian Levi Jung-Ruivivar reveals battle with eating disorder, takes break to recover
Just days after the start of the 2025 NCAA Women’s Gymnastics competition, Levi made the heart-wrenching choice to step away from the sport temporarily.
“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,” the 20-year-old freshman wrote in a candid and heartfelt statement on Instagram.
Her decision to pause her athletic career was not made lightly, but it marked a necessary step toward healing and self-care.
In an update to her supporters, Levi expressed her overwhelming gratitude for the support she has received throughout her journey.
"First, I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported me through my journey with my eating disorder since announcing it publicly. Your unwavering love means more to me than words could ever convey," she said, offering a deep and sincere thank you to all who have been by her side.
Her message highlights a crucial point—athletes, often admired for their physical strength and accomplishments, deserve care and consideration for their overall well-being.
"I have received so many messages of encouragement for my recovery. It serves to prove how many care not only about an individual's athletic success, but for their well-being and health," Levi shared, emphasizing the importance of mental and emotional health.
Levi also spoke openly about her own growth during this challenging time. She shared how it took her a while to accept that her worth extends far beyond her athletic achievements.
“I know this may seem convoluted, but this is something that took a while for me to come to terms with, and I hope others are able to view themselves as much more than athletic achievement,” she reflected, encouraging others to value themselves holistically, beyond their accomplishments.
Looking ahead, Levi expressed optimism about her recovery and her future in gymnastics.
“I am sure anyone who has received treatment for an eating disorder has heard the saying, 'recovery isn’t linear', and I couldn’t agree more. Despite this, everything has been going really well and I have so many incredible people helping me through this process,” she said, offering a message of hope and inspiration to others who may be facing similar struggles.
Finally, with renewed hope and determination, Levi shared her excitement for returning to gymnastics when the time is right.
“I am looking forward to getting back out on the competition floor!” she said, a testament to her resilience and unwavering passion for the sport that continues to fuel her recovery.
Levi Jung-Ruivivar’s openness about her struggles and journey to recovery is a powerful reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health and that healing is not only possible but incredibly valuable.
Her message of strength, gratitude, and hope serves as an inspiration to all, reminding everyone to prioritize their well-being above all else.
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