In a heart-wrenching revelation, it has come to light that iconic Olympic gold medalist, Mary Lou Retton, is currently in critical condition as she fights a severe form of pneumonia.

The news of her dire situation was shared by her daughter, McKenna Kelley, who is seeking prayers and financial assistance to cover medical expenses for her mother Mary Lou Retton.

A Fight for Life

McKenna Kelley took to her Instagram to make a plea for support, and on a fundraising page, named “MaryLouRettonsFight” on the platform Spotfund, she gave the world a glimpse of the challenging battle her mother is currently facing. According to McKenna’s post, Mary Lou Retton has been in the intensive care unit (ICU) for over a week and is struggling against an extremely rare form of pneumonia.

The situation is grave, with McKenna stating that her mother is unable to breathe on her own. As of now, the location of her treatment hasn’t been disclosed, although Mary Lou Retton is a resident of Houston, Texas.

An Urgent Appeal for Help

This is a difficult time for Mary Lou Retton’s family, especially concerning her medical expenses, as it was revealed that she doesn’t have medical insurance. In a heartrending plea, McKenna Kelley expressed her family’s need for assistance and conveyed the urgency of the situation.

“ANYTHING, absolutely anything, would be so helpful for my family and my mom,” Kelley wrote on the fundraising page. Her Instagram post was verified by Spotfund, affirming the legitimacy of the fundraiser.

Mary Lou Retton’s Legendary Journey

In 1984, during the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, Mary Lou Retton etched her name in history by becoming the first American woman to clinch an Olympic gold medal in gymnastics. She was a force to be reckoned with, also winning a total of five medals during those games, more than any other athlete at the time.

The significance of this achievement cannot be understated. It marked the end of a decades-long American drought for gymnastics gold in the Olympics. She surpassed Julius Lenhart‘s 1904 feat. While he did represent the United States, he was an Austrian citizen competing through an American gymnastics club.

The dramatic and unforgettable moment came as Retton entered her final rotation during the all-around competition, needing a perfect 10 on the vault to secure the gold. In an incredible display of skill and determination, she landed the perfect vault to capture the coveted medal.

A Legacy Continues

Mary Lou Retton’s victory in 1984 was not just a personal triumph; it sparked a new era in American gymnastics. It ended the Soviet Union’s dominance of the sport, a period when the Soviet gymnasts had clinched the top spots.

Her legacy lives on in the generations of American gymnasts who followed in her footsteps. Since her historic win, American women have continued to excel in gymnastics, with several athletes achieving Olympic gold. The tradition was carried forward by gymnasts like Nastia Liukin, Gabby Douglas, Simone Biles, and most recently, Sunisa Lee.

These extraordinary women have emulated Mary Lou Retton’s determination and have etched their own names into the annals of Olympic history, securing their place in the hearts of gymnastics enthusiasts across the world. The baton has been passed, and these athletes are poised to carry on the rich legacy that Mary Lou Retton initiated.

As the gymnastics world rallies behind Mary Lou Retton, a true symbol of inspiration, they also continue the legacy she began, pushing the boundaries of what is possible and inspiring future generations to reach for the stars. The fight for her life is a poignant reminder of the strength and resilience that she has always personified throughout her incredible journey.

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