Mary Lou Retton, a celebrated former Olympic gymnast, is “fighting for her life” in intensive care as she struggles with a rare form of pneumonia, reports claim.
According to a statement released by her family, 55-year-old Retton “is not able to breathe on her own.”
“My amazing mom, Mary Lou, has a very rare form of pneumonia and is fighting for her life. She is not able to breathe on her own,” her daughter McKenna Kelley wrote.
“She’s been in the ICU for over a week now. Out of respect for her and her privacy, I will not disclose all details. However, I will disclose that she is not insured.
“We ask that if you could help in any way, that 1) you PRAY! and 2) if you could help us with finances for the hospital bill.
“ANYTHING, absolutely anything, would be so helpful for my family and my mom. Thank y’all so very much!”
Retton became a household name after she won the individual all-around gold medal at the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, becoming one of the most famous athletes to have ever competed in the sport.
As result of her achievements, she appeared on numerous movies and TV shows during the 1980s and 1990s. In 1984, Sports Illustrated honored her as Sportsperson of the Year.
In an attempt to help the family with the medical bills, Retton’s daughter started a GoFundMe. Just how much admiration and respect people have for Retton is the fact that over 8,000 people made donation in a short period of time.
The initial goal was to raise $50,000, but so far the amount stands at a staggering $435,000.
People not only from the States but from other countries from the world have been sending their wishes for a speedy recovery.
Following her retirement from gymnastics, Retton became a motivational speaker. She also served on the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports under former President George W. Bush.
Latest update confirms that Retton’s condition is improving. “Mom’s progress is truly remarkable! Prayers have been felt and have been answered. Although she remains in the ICU, her path to recovery is steadily unfolding. Her fighting spirit is truly shining! Her breathing is becoming stronger, and her reliance on machines is diminishing,” her daughter wrote.
We hope Mary Lou Retton will recover completely in the days to come.
