Sir - I am deeply disturbed by the intense pressure being applied to Michelle de Bruin by sections of the media, by people in her own sport and by those who indulge in EastEnders-type speculation.
It is morally disgraceful that someone's life's work and future could be ruined because of one sample out of 18 (per year).
If we look carefully at what has happened to her since she won the Olympic gold medals we will see that they have been a huge burden for her to carry. In short, she has never received justice for her victories and one wonders whether she is sorry she ever bothered. I don't care whether she took drugs or not (I believe she has not); she has received less justice during her innocence than even O.J. Simpson. For God's sake, this girl is a swimmer, not a criminal!
Would any sporting organisation or individuals who would be prepared to raise funds for her legal defence (if required), please write to me. I am not a member of any political party or sporting organisation. - Yours etc.,
Brian Murphy,
61 Maple Drive, Drogheda, Co Louth.