U.S. Gymnastics Legend Mary Lou Retton Battling Pneumonia in ICU
U.S. gymnastics legend Mary Lou Retton is currently fighting for her life in the intensive care unit (ICU) as she battles a severe case of pneumonia. This heartbreaking news was confirmed by her daughter, McKenna Kelley.
Retton has been in the ICU for over a week due to a rare form of pneumonia, as stated on a *spotfund account set up by Kelley. Unfortunately, Retton’s condition has worsened to the point where she is unable to breathe on her own.
Kelley also revealed that Retton is currently uninsured, adding an additional burden to the family’s already difficult situation. In an effort to help with the mounting hospital bills, Kelley has requested financial assistance from the public.
“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!” Kelley wrote on the *spotfund page.
Retton, now 55 years old, made history at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics when she became the first American woman to win an individual Olympic gold medal in gymnastics. Her remarkable performance earned her five medals in total, including two silver and two bronze.
What made her victory all the more inspiring was the fact that she achieved this feat just weeks after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on her knee. The impressive recovery was attributed to three months of intensive rehabilitation that Retton completed in just two weeks.
In recognition of her remarkable achievements, Retton was inducted into the U.S. Olympics Hall of Fame in 1985 and the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame in 1997.
Fans and supporters from around the world are now rallying behind Mary Lou Retton, sending their thoughts and prayers for her speedy recovery. Her impact on the world of gymnastics and her inspirational story continue to inspire generations of athletes.