Five-time Olympic medalist Mary Lou Retton, who had been battling a rare form of pneumonia, is now back at home and in the recovery phase, according to an update from her daughter, McKenna Kelley. In a post on Instagram, Kelley expressed her gratitude for the support they have received during this challenging time.
The update came shortly after Retton’s other daughter, Shayla Kelley Schrepfer, shared news of a “scary setback” that her mother had experienced while still in the ICU. Schrepfer did not provide specific details about the setback but mentioned that Retton was “really exhausted.”
Earlier this month, Retton’s family had launched a donation page to assist with her medical expenses, revealing that she did not have medical insurance. The fundraiser post mentioned that she was battling a rare form of pneumonia and had been in the ICU for over a week.
The response to the fundraiser exceeded all expectations, with an initial goal of $50,000 being significantly surpassed. More than 8,300 individuals donated close to $450,000 to support Retton’s medical care. Additionally, the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) extended assistance to the Olympic icon during her health crisis.
Mary Lou Retton became widely known as “America’s sweetheart” following her remarkable performance at the 1984 Summer Games in Los Angeles. At the age of 16, she achieved perfection with a score of 10 in both the floor exercise and vault during the final two rotations, becoming the first American woman to claim the Olympic all-around title. In addition to her all-around gold medal, Retton earned two silver and two bronze medals, amassing a total of five medals at the 1984 Olympics.
Her remarkable accomplishments on the gymnastics floor endeared her to the American public, and she remains an iconic figure in the world of sports. The outpouring of support from fans, the community, and well-wishers during her recent health challenges underscores the lasting impact she has had on the sports world and the hearts of many.
Olympian Mary Lou Retton has returned home and is on the road to recovery after being hospitalized with a rare form of pneumonia, her family stated. pic.twitter.com/BTVQAtU60w
— CBS Evening News (@CBSEveningNews) October 23, 2023
