Before Simone Biles, the world witnessed a great gymnastic icon back in the 1980s. Mary Lou Retton, the iconic 1984 Olympic gold medalist who made waves in the sports world in her days. However, in recent turns of events, Retton, now 55 and a mother of 4, is currently fighting a battle against a rare pneumonia. Her daughter shared that Retton, hospitalized for over a week, initially struggled to breathe on her own.

With no insurance, a fundraising page seeks support for her medical expenses. The gymnastics legend’s eldest daughter updated concerned fans through social media, revealing Bretton’s fighting spirit. Close family members, including Marley Washinetz, her cousin, also provided updates regarding her great recovery a few days ago. However, a fresh social media video has shattered hearts globally. New updates are marking a poignant turn in this ongoing condition.

Gymnastics queen Mary Lou Retton’s recent health update

In a recent Instagram post, the gymnastic icon’s daughter, Shayla Kelley Schrepfer, shared a video on October 19. She expressed the family’s rollercoaster emotions. Initially hopeful, the situation took a scary turn on Tuesday.?In the video, Schrepfer said, “We were so excited, seeing so much progress, and then yesterday, we had a pretty scary setback.” Although Retton had a better day on Wednesday, she remains in the ICU, dealing with the aftermath of the setback. She further added, “really really exhausted”

The family had initiated a Spotfund page, aiming to raise $50,000 for Retton’s medical expenses, a goal surpassed with overwhelming support. As of Wednesday night, the fund had reached over $450,000. Schrepfer expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, emphasizing the love and messages they’ve received. Mary Lou Retton’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, this is what even her cousin said recently.

Backed by millions, on and off the court

In 1984, Mary Lou Retton made history as the first American woman gymnast to win gold in the individual all-around competition at the Los Angeles Summer Olympics. Her remarkable achievements, including five medals and being named Sportsperson of the Year, propelled her to icon status. Inducted into the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame in 1997, Retton’s legacy expanded into films and TV shows.

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However, 2023 brought unexpected challenges. Despite battling a rare form of pneumonia, Retton is making strides, thanks to the support of over 7,000 backers. Expressing gratitude for the overwhelming donations, her cousin acknowledged the nation’s prayers and generosity. The raised funds, nearing half a million, are crucial as Retton lacks insurance due to numerous surgeries from her demanding gymnastics career.

As the gymnastics community anxiously awaits updates on Mary Lou Retton’s health, her daughter’s words resonate deeply, capturing the collective hopes and prayers of millions of fans worldwide.

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