SANO, Texas (WCHS) — Mary Lou Retton is an Olympian and from West Virginia. Her daughter McKenna Kelley shared on social media Saturday that her mother’s health is getting better.
It was found that Retton, 55, had a very rare form of pneumonia. She has been in intensive care and hasn’t been able to breathe on her own, Kelley wrote earlier this week.
Kelley wrote on Instagram on Saturday that Retton was feeling better.
“We’re excited to share some good news. Mom has really come a long way. “Prayers have been heard and are being answered,” Kelley’s post said. “She is still in the intensive care unit, but her recovery is slowly getting better.” Her will to fight is really shining!”
At the 1984 Summer Olympics, Retton became the first American woman to win the all-around gymnastics gold medal. This made headlines across the country.
Retton also won two silver medals and two bronze medals at the Olympics, which made her Sports Illustrated’s Sportswoman of the Year and brought her fame across the country.
Then Retton worked in TV. In 1997, he was named into the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame.
Kelley’s social media post went on to say, “Her breathing is getting stronger, and her reliance on machines is diminishing.” “Even though the road ahead is long, seeing these changes is very encouraging! The treatments are starting to work on her.
Friends and family of Retton, who does not have health insurance, have already raised more than $420,000 for him.
Kelley’s post added that the family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming love and support that has been received.