Mary Lou Retton, the iconic gymnast who captured the world’s attention with her Olympic gold medal in 1984, has recently opened up about a life-altering health scare that has left her reflecting on her future. Last October, Retton was struck by a severe and rare type of pneumonia, which led to her being rushed to the hospital in critical condition. Her prognosis was grim, and there were moments when her daughters feared they would lose her.
A Life-or-Death Battle
Retton’s condition was so serious that doctors feared she might not survive the night. Her daughters prepared for the worst, but in a miraculous turn of events, Retton managed to pull through. After a few days of uncertainty, she was able to return to her family, though her ordeal was far from over. The pneumonia left significant scarring on her lungs, meaning her recovery would be a long and ongoing process.
In an emotional reflection, Retton shared the profound impact the experience had on her. “It’s been truly difficult,” she admitted. “My lungs have been scarred, and this will mean lifelong recovery for me.” Acknowledging how much she had relied on her physical abilities throughout her life, this new reality has been a challenging adjustment.
Gratitude Amidst the Struggles
Despite the severity of her illness, Retton expresses profound gratitude for surviving the ordeal, attributing her recovery to divine intervention. “Girl, I should be dead,” she shared, noting that her survival felt like a miracle. Her daughters remained by her side through the ordeal, and their support was unwavering.
While Retton was in the ICU, her daughters launched a fundraising campaign via SpotFund to help cover her extensive medical bills. The campaign garnered significant donations, but it also sparked some controversy. Questions arose about Retton’s insurance situation and how the funds were being used.
Standing by Her Family
Mary Lou Retton remains protective of her daughters, focusing on the genuine love and care they showed during the difficult time. Responding to the criticism surrounding the fundraising campaign, she said, “They were just caring for me. Critics will write what they will, but I’m unfazed. Their concern was genuine, and that’s all that mattered.”
A Journey of Recovery
Today, Retton’s journey is one of healing and reflection. While she acknowledges the physical and emotional toll of the experience, her resilience shines through. Though she may never fully recover from the damage to her lungs, she remains determined to move forward with gratitude for each day she is able to spend with her loved ones. The challenges she has faced serve as a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit, as she continues to overcome life’s obstacles with grace and perseverance.
