Mary Lou Retton is a renowned figure in gymnastics. The legendary gymnast was the first American to win the all-around gold medal in Olympic gymnastics in 1984. Battling through twists and turns of gymnastics, and life, Retton has surely created a strong legacy for herself. The 55-year-old gymnast was a champion on the field, and off the field, a fighter, and still is.

Mary was diagnosed with a rare condition of Pneumonia. However, for the fighter she is and the lovely daughters she has, she didn’t succumb to it. Recently, Mary recalled a sweet memory with her daughter right before she fell sick.

Mary Lou Retton recalls sweet memory

While Mary Lou Retton has had nothing short of a remarkable gymnastics career, she recently suffered from a severe medical condition. Her daughter, McKenna Kelly, announced on social media that the famed gymnast was battling with a rare condition of Pneumonia. With a bit of luck and the help of gymnastic fans, she finally recovered and recently shared a sweet memory.

Mary posted a throwback picture of her and her gymnastics daughter, Emma Jean Kelley. “Missing my sweet Emma Jean today since she’s gone back to college post-Thanksgiving break”, the Olympic Champion wrote. Wearing beautiful leotards, the mother-daughter duo looked stunning together.

Later, Mary also recalled a surprising thing about this photoshoot. “This photoshoot we did was right before I got sick and boy did we have such a blast! I love spending time with EJ”, the retired gymnast added. After a troublesome last few months, Mary’s family is finally back to enjoying life.

American gymnast defeats Pneumonia

The gymnastic world was shocked as McKenna announced the life-threatening encounter of Mary Lou Retton with Pneumonia. As if this wasn’t enough, Kelly further revealed that the family didn’t have enough funds to pay for the hospital bills. However, honoring the legend’s contribution to the nation, thousands of supporters gathered to lend a hand.

READ MORE: “How Strong She Is”: Amid Mary Lou’s Daughter’s Hopeful Note, the Legend’s Former Teammates Rekindle Hope

A large crowdfunding campaign, accumulating over $453,123, finally came to the rescue of the gymnast family. On October 23, Mary was finally out of danger, and on the road to recovery. The 55-year-old gymnast has been cautious since then and is finally back to enjoying life, although she misses her daughter.

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