Shawn Johnson, born January 19, 1992, is a 25-year-old from Des Moines, Iowa.
Standing at four feet eleven inches tall, she is a former 2008 Olympic gold and silver medalist: 3 gold, 1 silver. Now that she is no longer competing, she has been involved with the TV show Dancing with The Stars, writing and publishing books, and being her husband’s biggest fan. Andrew East is a 26-year-old, six foot two inches tall, former long snapper for the Oakland Raiders who is always super supportive of Shawn in all that she does. As a result, in 2016, Andrew East and Shawn tied the knot and are now coming up on a year and a half as a married couple.
A saddening, recent video has been released by Shawn Johnson and her husband Andrew East, revealing the fact that she had a miscarriage. She states in the video, “My husband Andrew and I found out that we were unexpectedly pregnant, only to find out hours later some tragic news. I have been crying more than I ever have, but am still optimistic for what is next”. I find it incredibly heartbreaking and I hope that they know that there are people standing with them offering nothing but love and support. Before I start talking about this news, getting know who they are is important just in case you don’t know.
With 1.3 million follows on Instagram and over 400k followers on Twitter and YouTube, Shawn and her husband vlog their personal lives, giving their viewers an inside look at what it means to be part of their journey. With many videos ranging from house tours to gymnastic fun, Shawn and Andrew are the true definitions of what it means to have relationship goals. There’s one video with a personal testimony that will have you weeping. Grab your tissue boxes because you’re going to need them.
Shawn and Andrew decided to tell their viewers that times are tough and to open up the conversation about miscarriages because others may be going through the same situation. The twenty-minute video does not only address their current situation but it recalls the experience through clips, showing the reactions of each finding out that they are pregnant - along with footage at doctor visits and consultations. I found it to be courageous, heartfelt, and eye-opening. Although they are a very young couple, I find them to be amazing role models not just because of their professional careers, but also as their character as people. Having the ability to share such a personal aspect of their lives is not easy and for that I respect and love them greatly.
Sending thoughts and prayers their way and giving them support through comments are some things we can do in order to make this tough time a little bit easier to bear. Being able to see and know that their followers and fans are behind them will hopefully not only help them currently but also in their future endeavors.
We love you Shawn and Andrew! XOXO
