Fallen Hero Debi Thomas Completes Financial Course To Get Her Life Back On Track
Nov. 11 2015, Published 6:56 a.m. ET
Former Olympic ice skater Debi Thomas is trying to get her life back together after falling on hard times. But is she going about it the right way? RadarOnline.com has learned she completed a financial education class after filing for bankruptcy, but she is facing new criticism from fans who say she should not be requesting donations online.
Forced to file for bankruptcy after accumulating nearly $600,000 in debt, Thomas is currently living in a bed bug infested mobile home with her fiancé, James Looney.
As part of the bankruptcy proceedings, Thomas had to take a personal financial management class.
The first African American woman to win a medal at the Olympic Games, in Calgary in 1988, Thomas, 48, recently revealed her downward spiral to Iyanla Vanzant, appearing on OWN's Fix My Life.
Now, fans of Thomas are outraged she has launched a GoFundMe campaign in the hopes of getting a reality television show, and $10,000.
"This cause has been developed as an emergency fund for Dr. Debi Thomas, her fiancé, Jamie Looney, and their family to restore financial stability after severe sudden financial losses over the past couple of years associated with a combination of financially crippling life challenges. This assistance will help cover expenses while they complete their promising projects currently in the works," the page states.
Reaction from critics was swift. "What I don't understand is why you, as a surgeon (and a specialist no less), are unable or unwilling to work any longer and are asking others to fund your endeavors. What am I missing?" user Sa Wi asked.
"I find this GoFund Me account offensive. It's best for people who have NO resources and are down on their luck. You have lots of resources at your finger tips. I'm sure you can work more hours, get a loan, or get another job to help your family. Isn't that better than asking for free money from others? I'm a nurse and make a fraction of what a doctor makes. I'm sure you can work this crisis out, you've proven yourself before and now is not the time to quit," Dona Frigy said.
"This is begging. I'm a disabled mom and grandma and I WOULDN'T EVEN BEG FOR MONEY. Booooo," Lynnette Workman added.
So far more than $5,000 has already been pledged, and on Tuesday Thomas added the following update: "There are no mental health issues, drugs, or alcohol involved, just healing."
In an interview with Good Morning America on Monday, Thomas revealed she still doesn't have a job, but said her fiancé Looney has been sober for six months.
Do you think it's fair for Thomas to ask fans for money? Let us know in the comments!