McKayla Maroney claims she was molested by gymnast team doctor at the age of 13

The ongoing scandal linked to Harvey Weinstein has taken the Hollywood industry by storm after he was exposed to multiple allegations of sexual assault earlier this month. Dozens of women, including celebrities, have already come forward to share their own experiences of sexual misconduct with movie mogul.

But the scandal has proven that the cultural epidemic of sexual violence is not only prevalent in the entertainment world, but also in other industries. In fact, Mckayla Maroney was inspired to speak out about the horror she experienced in the hands of the U.S.

gymnast team's doctor, Larry Nassar, after hearing the stories of other victims.

U.S. gymnast team doctor faces allegations of molestation

The Olympic gold medalist claimed she was first molested at the age of 13 and continued until she retired from the industry. "I had a dream to go to the Olympics," she wrote in a lengthy letter. "And the things that I had to endure to get there, were unnecessary, and disgusting."

McKayla Maroney said that the alleged sexual misconduct happened several times. She, however, singled out an episode, wherein Dr. Larry Nassar reportedly gave her a sleeping pill and then later woke up alone with him in his hotel room. At that time, the gymnast thought it was the end for her and considered it the scariest encounter she had with the team doctor.

Dr. Larry Nassar is now facing multiple allegations of sexual misconduct with over 100 women suing him for abuse, according to a previous report by the Huffington Post. It further stated that most complainants claimed the doctor molested them when they were minors.

Meanwhile, the 21-year-old former athlete ended her letter with words of encouragement to all victims of sexual assault and/or harassment.

"Our silence has given the wrong people power for too long, and it's time to take our power back," she said.

Retired gymnast joins #MeToo campaign

She is also hoping to see more victims speaking out without putting their careers and dream in jeopardy. On top of that, McKayla Maroney is looking forward to seeing the end of sexual abuse.

The retired gymnast is just one among thousands of women inspired by the #MeToo campaign on social media. The online rally was initiated by Alyssa Milano in order to encourage other victims to share their own stories and to shed light on sexual violence.

The movement has stirred up online discussions and has drawn millions of comments, mentions, posts, and shares from the online community.