While Biles may have had a tough year, Lee was recovering from truly tragic family events.
“Finally, my mom got tired of it.”
Lee’s mother, Yeev Thoj, took her daughter to a gymnastics class and the rest is history.
So I couldn’t afford a real beam, so I built her one."
What should’ve been a routine tree trim turned into a world-changing event for the Lee family.
John Lee explained toCBS Minnesota, “She almost didn’t go because I was in surgery.
His encouragement worked, and Lee went on to win three medals.
After she won, she spoke withTodayto heap praise on her dad.
“My dad means so much to me.
I love him so much.
I wish he could be here and cherish this moment with me …
He sacrificed everything to put me in gymnastics.
Both my parents really have.”
Lee, despite being an Olympic gold medalist, still had this transition to go through.
Her mother, Yeev Thoj, said the expectation that Lee would stay at home was largely cultural.
As for Lee, her decision was relatively easy.
However, every now and then, we’re given a little sneak peek into the Lee family life.
She captioned the wholesomeInstagrampost with a single heart emoji.
I know how hard she works.
I wish I can give her a big hug right now.
I’ve been texting her all day today.”
Thirteen years of hard work, and she did it."
Speaking toThe New York Timesin 2020, Lee recalled how difficult it was for her to process.
