When the world converges for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, something extraordinary will be available at the Olympic Village for the first time: a nursery. This groundbreaking initiative is spearheaded by Allyson Felix, the most decorated woman in Olympic track and field history, in partnership with Pampers. This nursery will serve as a sanctuary for athlete moms, providing them with a dedicated space to care for their children while they compete.
A Mother’s Vision Comes to Life
Allyson Felix, an 11-time Olympic medalist and a mother of two, understands firsthand the challenges faced by athlete moms. “It was top of mind to support athletes who are mothers,” Felix shared with NBC Olympics. Her vision was to create a space that feels like home, where families can find solace and normalcy amid the high-pressure environment of the Games. This nursery, located at the heart of the Athletes’ Village Plaza, offers a haven for Olympic mothers to bond with and nurse their babies.
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Addressing a Critical Need
Felix’s own journey to motherhood was fraught with challenges. Diagnosed with preeclampsia at 32 weeks pregnant, she had to undergo an emergency C-section. Her daughter, Camryn, was born prematurely and spent her first month in a neonatal intensive care unit. Despite these hurdles, Felix returned to competition and continued to excel, winning medals at the Tokyo Olympics. Her experiences highlighted the need for better support systems for athlete moms.
“It was really challenging to bring my family while competing,” Felix recounted. “Washing bottles in hotels, feeding your baby in stadiums, finding someone to watch your baby—these were the real challenges.” Her determination to improve these conditions led to the creation of the Olympic Village nursery.
The Ultimate Support System
The nursery will be stocked with Pampers brand wipes and nappies, and equipped with areas for playtime and family bonding. This initiative ensures that motherhood doesn’t have to mark the end of an athlete’s career. Emma Terho, the IOC’s Athletes’ Commission Chair, emphasised, “This nursery allows mothers to continue their careers while focusing on the Games.”
Felix’s advocacy extends beyond the Olympics. Through purchases of Pampers diapers at Walmart, up to one million diapers will be donated to the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, aiding families with premature babies.
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A New Era for Athlete Moms
For athlete moms, balancing the demands of elite sports and parenting is no small feat. The nursery represents a significant cultural shift, demonstrating that motherhood and athletic excellence can coexist. Felix’s mission is to ensure that initiatives like this become societal norms, paving the way for future generations of athlete moms.
“I want to be a voice for athlete moms,” Felix said, now a member of the Athletes’ Commission at the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Her advocacy has already led to the creation of a childcare fund in 2021 to support mom athletes, and a recent $20 million grant from the Melinda French Gates Foundation to support Black maternal health.
Looking Forward
As Felix and her family prepare to travel to Paris, she looks forward to cheering on her fellow athletes from the sidelines. Among them is Elle St. Pierre, a new mother competing in the women’s 1500m. Felix’s excitement for the Games is palpable as she anticipates strong performances from Team USA.
“Our team is so strong,” Felix enthused. “We have that depth as always.” Her insights reflect her deep connection to the sport and her unwavering support for her fellow athletes.
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The launch of the Olympic Village nursery is a testament to Allyson Felix’s dedication to supporting athlete moms. It embodies her belief that motherhood should not be a barrier to achieving greatness. This initiative not only provides much-needed support for Olympic mothers but also sets a precedent for the future, ensuring that athlete moms can continue to pursue their dreams without compromising their role as parents.
By creating a space where athlete moms can feel at home, Felix is not just making history—she’s changing the game. This nursery is more than just a facility; it’s a symbol of progress, inclusivity, and the relentless spirit of athlete moms everywhere.
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