Hello everyone,

I’m sharing an accurate update directly from me.

After months of communication and follow-up since June with USATF and legal counsel, I did not receive assurance from the IAU that my reasonable disability accommodation request would be supported at the 24-Hour World Championship.

The 24-Hour World Championship can be a very difficult environment for neurodivergent athletes, with 24 hours of sustained sensory overload. There’s only so much an athlete can do to self-accommodate 😎🎧. Those who need it should have space within the rules that reasonably accommodates our needs and ensures fair, equitable competition.

My request was simple— to have access to a safe, quiet, more open, and less chaotic space for my race essentials, separate from the enclosed US Team tent that has been a difficult environment in the past. I tend to feel physically ill in small, enclosed, or crowded spaces. I made suggestions that fit within the rules, but received no response.

As an Autistic/ADHD athlete, I’ve learned how important it is to advocate for my needs and to compete in an environment that supports— not harms— my health and performance. There’s been plenty of time for my request to be addressed, yet it wasn’t handled in time. Governing bodies have a duty of care to protect athletes from harm and to ensure our safety and wellbeing.

Because my accommodation was not resolved, I did not sign the US Team’s Statement of Conditions. I was therefore never formally on the team and had nothing to withdraw from, allowing Team Managers the right to replace me. If this wasn’t clear to the Team Managers, they could clarify with USATF. I managed everything directly and respectfully with the governing bodies, legal counsel, and our USOPC Ombudsman, in compliance with rules, policies, and my rights.

I’m heartbroken to be in this situation. As you can imagine, it’s caused significant stress in the final days before the race. I did my best to advocate for disability rights and wanted nothing more than to represent my country and compete alongside my teammates. I wish things had been handled sooner and more collaboratively, so we could all focus on racing and supporting one another.

I’m wishing the U.S. Team and all competitors a safe and successful event. I’ll be cheering from afar and continuing to push for progress so that every athlete feels supported, understood, and included. ✌️🌍

📷: @irun4ultra

#DisabilityRights #InclusivityInSports #AuDHD #Neurodiversity #AutismAcceptance #ADHDAwareness #AthleteWellbeing #SafeSport #MentalHealthInSports #CamilleHerron #ActuallyAutistic