The Olympic gold medal-winning athlete is making a 'truly remarkable' progress although she remains in ICU amid her struggle with a rare form of pneumonia.
- Oct 16, 2023
AceShowbiz - Mary Lou Retton is doing "remarkable" in her battle against pneumonia. The Olympic gold medal-winning gymnast was in a critical condition after being struck down by a "very rare" form of the condition but her daughter McKenna Kelley has provided a positive update on her recovery.
"We're thrilled to share some uplifting updates. 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," McKenna wrote in an Instagram message.
The post continued, "Though it's a lengthy journey, witnessing these improvements is incredibly heartening! She's responding so well to treatments. Once more, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your overwhelming love and support."
Mary Lou, 55, made history at the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles when she became the first American woman to win gold in the individual all-around competition. She also claimed two silver and two bronze medals at the same Games.
She retired from gymnastics in 1986 and went on to land cameo roles in a number of movies including "Scrooged" and "Naked Gun 33 1/3: The Final Insult" as well as TV shows such as "Glee" and "Baywatch".
Mary Lou also took part on the TV talent show "Dancing With the Stars" in 2018 and came in ninth place.
McKenna revealed earlier this week that her mother had spent over a week in intensive care and launched an online fundraiser to help pay for the treatment as she does not have medical insurance.
In a post on the Spotfund.com page, McKenna wrote, "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. 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 not insured."
