Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in October 2023.
Olympic gold medalist Mary Lou Retton, a beloved West Virginia native, is fighting for her life after being hospitalized with severe pneumonia. The gymnastics legend is currently in the intensive care unit, struggling to breathe independently. Fans and well-wishers are urged to keep her in their thoughts and prayers.Mary Lou Retton smiling with her arms folded and a gold medal around her neck, Photo Credit: marylouretton/Instagram
Mary Lou Retton smiling with her arms folded and a gold medal around her neck, Photo Credit: marylouretton/Instagram
Family Appeals for Support
Retton’s daughter, McKenna Kelley, created a Spotfund to update the public on her mother’s condition. According to Kelley, Retton has spent more than a week in intensive care. While respecting her mother’s privacy, Kelley revealed one significant detail: Retton does not have health insurance.
In a heartfelt Instagram story, Kelley appealed to supporters:
“Please consider helping our family out, and most importantly, please continue to pray.”
A Gymnastics Legend
Mary Lou Retton’s remarkable journey began in Fairmont, West Virginia. She made Olympic history during the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Just weeks after knee surgery, she stunned the world with two perfect 10 scores in the floor and vault events.
She also became the first American to win the all-around gold medal in gymnastics. That year, Retton added two silver medals and two bronze medals, outshining her competitors and solidifying her place in sports history.
Fundraising post for Mary Lou Retton’s pneumonia, Photo Credit: Spotfund
Fundraising post for Mary Lou Retton’s pneumonia, Photo Credit: Spotfund
Beyond the Gym
Retton’s influence extends beyond gymnastics. She appeared as herself in TV shows and movies, including Scrooged, Baywatch, and Knots Landing. Her passion for fitness led her to serve on the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports under George W. Bush. She has also served as an ambassador for the Olympics and gymnastics worldwide.
A Hometown Hero
Retton remains one of West Virginia’s most celebrated athletes. Fairmont honors her legacy with a park and a road named after her. The outpouring of support, prayers, and well-wishes from fans across the country reflects her profound impact—not just in sports, but on the lives of those inspired by her courage, dedication, and spirit.
