A prominent figure in American sports history, Mary Lou Retton rose to fame as a gymnast after winning gold on vault and floor at the 1984 Summer Olympics.
She was voted Sports Illustrated’s Sportswoman of the Year and appeared on Wheaties boxes.
McKenna Kelly, Retton’s daughter, recently shared on Instagram that her mother is “fighting for her life in the ICU” due to a severe respiratory illness.
Retton had been under the care of medical staff for almost a week due to an illness that made it difficult for her to breathe.
Kelly revealed that Retton’s hospital bills are mounting because he doesn’t have health insurance. Kelly has set up a fund to help with expenses and is asking for “prayers and financial contributions.”
Retton retired from gymnastics in 1986 but continued to be known for appearing on programs such as *Dancing with the Stars*, *Glee* and *Baywatch*. She was also inducted into the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame.
The length of Retton’s hospital stay is unknown, but her reputation as a gymnastics icon will live on.
In closing, Mary Lou Retton’s current health battle serves as a reminder of her incredible impact on American sports and the challenges that even the most accomplished individuals can face later in life. Famed for her historic triumphs at the 1984 Olympics, Retton’s legacy as a gymnast is firmly rooted in history, but her recent battle with a severe respiratory illness shows that even legends are vulnerable to unexpected hardships. News of her stay in the ICU rallied the public not only in support but also to highlight the broader issue of access to health care, as Retton’s lack of health insurance led to mounting medical bills.
While her future remains uncertain, Retton’s influence extends far beyond gymnastics. She has remained a beloved figure through her appearances in popular culture and has inspired countless people. As her family, friends, and fans rallied around her during this difficult time, it’s clear that Retton’s impact is felt not only in her athletic achievements but also in her resilience and ability to inspire others.
Whatever comes next for her, Retton’s legacy as a trailblazing athlete and cultural icon will undoubtedly live on, reminding us all of her extraordinary contribution to the world of sports and beyond.