ECNETNews, New York, NY, August 5, 2024: Simone Biles achieved remarkable success at the 2024 Paris Olympics, securing four medals as her family proudly watched from the stands. Present were her adoptive mother Nellie Cayetano Biles, father Ronald Biles, and husband Jonathan Owens, an NFL player.
Nellie Biles, originally from Belize City, Belize, is the daughter of a former Belize Senator and a dedicated teacher. At 18, she moved to the United States to pursue nursing at the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, where she encountered modern conveniences for the first time.
The couple’s journey began in 1976 when Nellie met Ronald at Randolph Air Force Base. They married in 1977, with Ronald serving in the Air Force while Nellie advanced in her nursing career, co-owning multiple nursing homes in Texas.
Though technically Simone Biles’ biological grandmother, Nellie and Ronald adopted Simone at the age of six after she and her siblings were placed in foster care due to their biological mother’s struggles. Nellie has openly shared her hopes for bonding with the girls, expressing a deep maternal love that emerged over time.
Under their care, Simone and her sister Adria were encouraged to pursue gymnastics, leading to Simone’s exceptional talents being nurtured from a young age. Nellie has emphasized Simone’s unwavering commitment to her training, noting that she hardly ever missed a practice.
Throughout Simone’s career, her parents have been her steadfast supporters, attending every competition except during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics due to COVID-19 restrictions, when Simone took time off to prioritize her mental health.
Simone also holds Belizean citizenship through Nellie and considers the country a second home.
ABOUT BELIZE
Located on the eastern coast of Central America, Belize is known for its breathtaking Caribbean shorelines and lush jungles. The Belize Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to vibrant marine life and countless islands, or cayes. The country’s jungles are rich with Mayan heritage, showcasing awe-inspiring ruins such as Caracol and Lamanai.
Belize has a diverse population, with approximately 16% of its citizens living abroad, while around 15% of the population consists of immigrants. Many Belizeans seek opportunities in the United States due to its proximity and economic ties. Others emigrate to Canada, Mexico, and various English-speaking Caribbean nations.
Travel advisories for Belize recommend caution, particularly in certain areas of Belize City, where gang-related violence has raised concerns. Travelers are advised to remain vigilant and avoid non-essential travel to high-risk areas.
