Olympic gold medalist Mary Lou Retton is reportedly facing a life-threatening battle with a rare form of pneumonia, according to her daughter, McKenna Kelley. The 55-year-old gymnastics icon, who made history at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles by becoming the first American woman to clinch an individual all-around gold medal, is said to be in intensive care, struggling to breathe on her own.
In a heartfelt plea for support on the crowdfunding site SpotFund, McKenna Kelley disclosed the dire situation her mother is currently facing. The message conveyed the severity of the circumstances, emphasizing that Mary Lou Retton is not insured, and the family lacks the financial means to cover the mounting hospital costs.
“My amazing mom, Mary Lou, has a very rare form of pneumonia and is fighting for her life,” Kelley shared on the fundraising platform. “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.”
The heartfelt appeal continued, “However, I will disclose that she is not insured. 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!”
In response to the urgent call for assistance, a fundraising goal of $50,000 was set, but the outpouring of support has been overwhelming. As of the latest update, the campaign has surpassed the initial target, reaching an impressive $438,937. Over 8,000 donors have contributed to the fund, showcasing the widespread concern and affection for the Olympic champion who captivated the nation in the 1980s.
Mary Lou Retton’s groundbreaking victory in 1984 not only secured her a place in sports history but also earned her the title of Sports Illustrated’s “Sportswoman of the Year.” The gymnastics legend, who graced the Wheaties box, retired in 1986 after winning the American Cup all-around competition for the third time in 1985. In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the sport, she was inducted into the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame in 1997.
Mary Lou Retton shares four daughters with her ex-husband Shannon Kelley — McKenna, Shayla, Skyla, and Emma. Remarkably, McKenna Kelley followed in her mother’s footsteps, showcasing her gymnastic prowess at Louisiana State University.
U.S. gymnastics legend Mary Lou Retton, the first American woman to win the all-around gold medal at the 1984 Olympics, is now fighting for her life against a rare form of pneumonia, her family says. @kristendahlgren reports and @drtaranarula shares medical insight. pic.twitter.com/ousA8QGs7r
— TODAY (@TODAYshow) October 11, 2023
