Mary Lou Retton, one of America’s most celebrated Olympic gymnasts, has shared details of the severe health crisis she experienced in late 2023. The 1984 Olympic gold medalist appeared on NBC’s Today in April 2024 for her first public interview since her hospitalization, revealing how close she came to losing her life during a battle with a rare form of pneumonia.
The former gymnast, now 55, told host Hoda Kotb that she was “blessed to be alive” after a rapid health decline led to her being admitted to intensive care. Doctors considered placing her on life support, highlighting the seriousness of her condition.
Source: NBC Today Interview – April 2024
Hospitalization and Diagnosis
Mary Lou Retton was hospitalized in October 2023 after experiencing respiratory issues that progressed quickly. The diagnosis was a rare and severe form of pneumonia. Her daughter, McKenna Kelley, later revealed that her mother had been unable to breathe on her own and was treated in an intensive care unit (ICU).
The illness was not related to COVID-19, influenza, or RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), as Retton tested negative for all three viruses. The origin of the infection remains unclear, and doctors have not publicly identified the specific pathogen.
Her medical situation drew national attention after McKenna Kelley launched a crowdfunding campaign to help cover medical expenses. According to Kelley, her mother was uninsured at the time of hospitalization, leading to significant financial need.
Community Support and Fundraising Success
The fundraising campaign was hosted on Spotfund and generated more than $459,000 in donations. Contributions came from fans, supporters, and members of the gymnastics community. The overwhelming response highlighted the deep respect and admiration many Americans continue to have for Retton, nearly 40 years after she made Olympic history.
Source: Spotfund Crowdfunding Campaign
Sudden Health Deterioration and Emergency Care
In her interview, Retton recounted how she was initially sent home after her first hospital visit but soon suffered a dramatic drop in oxygen levels, requiring immediate readmission. One of her daughters, Shayla Schrepfer, later described the night her mother was taken back to the hospital as critical.
Retton ultimately remained in the ICU for two weeks, during which time her condition fluctuated. Fortunately, by late October 2023, her health had stabilized enough for her to be discharged and continue recovery at home.
Source: Entertainment Tonight Coverage
A Legacy of Strength and Resilience
Mary Lou Retton became a household name in the United States during the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, where she won five medals, including a historic all-around gold medal, making her the first American woman to achieve the feat. She also earned two silver and two bronze medals, solidifying her place as one of the most iconic figures in U.S. sports history.
Her accomplishments contributed significantly to the popularity of gymnastics in the United States and inspired a generation of athletes.
Retton was later awarded the Sullivan Award for the nation’s top amateur athlete and became a media personality, motivational speaker, and advocate for health and wellness.
Source: Team USA Olympic Profile
Life After Hospital Discharge
Since returning home, Retton has taken a gradual approach to recovery, prioritizing her respiratory health and overall well-being. She told NBC that although she continues to experience fatigue and reduced lung function, her focus remains on healing and being present for her family.
She emphasized her gratitude for the medical team, her daughters, and the wider community who supported her during one of the most difficult times of her life.
Retton now uses her platform to raise awareness about the importance of early detection of respiratory illnesses and being proactive about health, especially for aging athletes and those with physically demanding histories.
Privacy and Media Coverage
Throughout her recovery, Retton and her family have made efforts to balance public interest with privacy. While initially sharing updates via social media and interviews, the family has asked for space to allow Mary Lou to focus on her health.
The media has largely respected this, focusing instead on her legacy and resilience rather than speculation. Fans and former teammates have continued to offer messages of encouragement online.
Final Thoughts
Mary Lou Retton’s story is one of resilience, gratitude, and inspiration. Her experience battling a life-threatening illness has resonated with many, not just as a reminder of the vulnerability of even elite athletes, but also as a testament to human perseverance and community support.
While the cause of her pneumonia remains medically unexplained, her recovery is a powerful reminder of the role that timely intervention, family support, and public compassion can play in overcoming adversity.
As Retton continues to heal, she remains a symbol of strength for fans worldwide, and her message of courage continues to inspire new generations—just as she did during her historic performance in 1984.
Verified Sources and Further Reading:
- NBC Today Interview with Mary Lou Retton
- Entertainment Tonight – Health Update
- Team USA Olympic Profile – Mary Lou Retton
- Spotfund – Mary Lou Retton Medical Fund
