Alarming update on US Olympic hero – “fighting for her life” in ICU

Mary Lou Retton, the decorated former Olympic gymnast, is currently facing a serious health battle as she fights a rare form of pneumonia. The alarming news was shared by her family, who revealed that the 55-year-old Retton is currently in intensive care and unable to breathe on her own.

Mary Lou Retton is a well-known figure in the world of sports, particularly for her remarkable achievements in Olympic gymnastics. She gained international recognition when she won the gold medal in the individual all-around competition at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. This historic victory made her the first American woman to earn the all-around gold medal in gymnastics, marking a significant milestone in the sport.

Her success at the Olympics catapulted her to national fame, and she continued to make appearances in various films and television shows throughout the 1980s and ’90s. Mary Lou Retton’s accomplishments were further recognized when she was named Sportsperson of the Year by Sports Illustrated in 1984.

LOS ANGELES – AUGUST 1984: Mary Lou Retton of the USA waves to the crowd during the Women’s Gymnastics competition of the 1984 Summer Olympic Games held from July 30 to August 3, 1984 at Pauley Pavilion in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by David Madison/Getty Images)

The news of her current health battle, as revealed by her daughter, McKenna Kelley, has understandably concerned her fans and well-wishers. McKenna shared the update on Spotfund, seeking support and prayers for her mother’s recovery. According to the post, Mary Lou Retton has been in the ICU for over a week, battling a rare form of pneumonia that has left her unable to breathe without assistance.

The family is facing the additional challenge that Mary Lou Retton is not insured, which has led to mounting hospital bills. In the post, McKenna Kelley kindly requested prayers and financial assistance for her mother’s medical expenses, emphasizing that any help would be greatly appreciated during this difficult time.

Gold medal winner Mary Lou Retton and bronze medal winner Simona Pauca of Romania listen to the playing of the United States National Anthem at the awards ceremony for the Women’s Gymnastics Combined event at the 1984 Los Angeles Summer Olympic Games. (Photo by © Wally McNamee/CORBIS/Corbis via Getty Images)

Mary Lou Retton’s journey from a gymnastics legend to a motivational speaker and advocate for physical fitness is well-documented. She also served on the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports during former President George W. Bush’s administration.

The news of her health battle has sparked an outpouring of support and well-wishes from her fans and the sports community. Mary Lou Retton remains an inspirational figure for many, and her family, friends, and supporters are undoubtedly hoping for her swift recovery.