Legendary Olympic gymnast Mary Lou Retton is currently “fighting for her life” in an ICU as she battles a rare form of pneumonia, according to a concerning update from her daughter McKenna Kelley.
Kelley took to Instagram asking for prayers and donations to help cover her mother’s steep medical bills during this difficult time.
Mary Lou Retton’s Daughter Shares Health Update
On a SpotFund page titled “MaryLouRettonsFight,” Kelley shared that the gold medal icon has been in intensive care for over a week. She also revealed the pneumonia her mother has contracted is extremely rare and has left Retton unable to breathe on her own.
Kelley also noted on the SpotFund page that her mother has “a long road to recovery” ahead. She expressed gratitude for the outpouring of prayers and support so far during this difficult time.
Mary Lou Retton’s Groundbreaking Olympic Career
Retton first captured America’s heart at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, where she won a record-breaking 5 medals as the top athlete of the games.
Her iconic status was cemented after she earned the first-ever Olympic gold for an American woman in the prestigious individual all-around event.
Retton wowed judges and fans with her perfect 10 scores on the vault and floor. She also took home all-around gold at the 1984 US Championships that same monumental year.
Legacy as a Gymnastics Legend
Thanks to her historic Olympic run and dazzling skills, Retton became a household name and an inspiration to young gymnasts. She was fittingly inducted into the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame in 1997, solidifying her place as a legend in the sport.
Prayers Needed During ICU Pneumonia Battle
Now facing this alarming health crisis at just 54 years old, Retton’s family is asking for prayers and support as the iconic athlete fights for her life against the rare pneumonia. Fans are hoping for a full recovery for the gymnast legend.
