Mary Lou Retton, the acclaimed US gymnastics icon, recently shared her harrowing battle with a rare form of pneumonia in an emotional interview on the Today Show. At 55 years old, the Olympic gold medalist’s health crisis unfolded in October 2023 when she was admitted to an intensive care unit in a Texas hospital. Supported by her daughters, Retton opened up about her experience, expressing her immense gratitude for being alive today.
Retton’s decision to discuss her health struggles publicly was made due to the seriousness of her recent ordeal. Known for her private nature, Retton explained, “I’m very private, and to come out and talk about it — usually my interviews are ‘Oh yes, it felt great to win the Olympics!’ This is serious, and this is life.” In the interview, Retton was seated next to her daughter, Shayla Schrepfer, at their Texas home, creating a candid and heartfelt atmosphere.
Reflecting on her survival, Retton emphasized, “I am so grateful to be here. I am blessed to be here because there was a time when they were about to put me on life support.” Her gratitude shines through as she acknowledges the critical role her fans played in her recovery. In a social media post on Thanksgiving, she expressed her thanks for slowly improving and being able to spend time at home with her daughters, highlighting the positive progress she has made.
During her health crisis, Retton’s family set up a Spotfund page to cover her medical expenses as she lacked medical insurance. The response from fans and well-wishers was overwhelming, demonstrating the power of support and love during difficult times. Retton’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, never giving up, and the impact of unwavering devotion from loved ones.
Mary Lou Retton’s gymnastics career is nothing short of remarkable. At the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, she won five medals, including the first-ever gold in the individual all-around competition by an American woman. Her accomplishments led to her induction into the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame in 1997. Retton’s hometown of Fairmont, West Virginia, has also honored her with a road and park bearing her name. Over the years, she has made appearances in movies and TV shows, even gracing an episode of ‘Baywatch.’ Furthermore, Retton served on the President’s Council for Physical Fitness and Sports during former President George W. Bush’s administration.
Mary Lou Retton’s incredible journey reminds us of the strength of the human spirit and the significance of support and love, both in our personal lives and within larger communities. Her story is a source of inspiration for all, especially during challenging times.
