Mary Lou Retton, the beloved US gymnastics icon, recently opened up about her harrowing battle with a rare form of pneumonia. In her first public discussion about the ordeal, the 55-year-old Olympic gold medalist expressed her gratitude for being alive and shared her experience in an interview with Hoda Kotb on the Today Show.
The health crisis unfolded in October 2023 when Retton was admitted to an intensive care unit in a Texas hospital. Her daughter, McKenna Kelley, expressed deep concern, describing it as a fight for her mother’s life, as Retton struggled to breathe without assistance.
In her interview with Kotb, Retton, who usually values her privacy, felt compelled to share her story due to the seriousness of her recent health battle. Seated next to her daughter, Shayla Schrepfer, at their Texas home, she reflected on her decision to discuss her health struggles publicly, saying, “This is serious and this is life.”
Retton expressed immense gratitude for her survival, recognizing the pivotal moment when doctors were about to put her on life support. “I am so grateful to be here. I am blessed to be here,” she emphasized.
The emotional interview is set to air on Monday, with a preview clip already shared on the ‘Sunday Today’ show. On Thanksgiving, Retton took to social media to express her gratitude to her fans, appreciating their overwhelming support. She shared her positive progress in recovery and her joy of being home with her daughters.
As she gathers with loved ones to celebrate Thanksgiving, Retton’s heart is overflowing with profound gratitude. She recognizes the preciousness of life, the love that surrounds her, and the resilience of the human spirit. Retton couldn’t help but acknowledge the significant role her fans played in her recovery, saying, “Your love has been a beacon of hope in my life.”
During her health crisis, Retton’s family set up a Spotfund page to help cover her medical expenses since she didn’t have medical insurance. The page received generous support from fans and well-wishers, showcasing the outpouring of love for this incredible athlete.
Retton’s remarkable gymnastics career includes winning five medals at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, making history as the first American woman to secure gold in the individual all-around competition. She was inducted into the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame in 1997, and her hometown of Fairmont, West Virginia, has honored her with a road and park named after her.
Beyond her gymnastics achievements, Retton has made appearances in movies and TV shows, including a cameo on ‘Baywatch.’ She also served on the President’s Council for Physical Fitness and Sports during former President George W. Bush’s administration.
Mary Lou Retton’s story serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of support and love from fans and family during challenging times. Her journey is a reminder to cherish each day and appreciate the precious gift of life.
