On the Olympic grounds, Mary Lou Retton holds a rare record of earning all-around gold as the first American gymnast. She had this achievement just 40 years ago when she was 16 years old. Until last October, the gymnastics veteran had made certain positive headlines. But in that month, McKenna Kelley, daughter of Mary Lou Retton, broke the news of her ailing mother, who had already been shifted to the ICU. Since then, the discussion had kept brewing with many alleged murky insights about her health. 

However, keeping those aside, the former Olympic champion had kept making virtual and public appearances with a feverish health and strong aesthetic. That was what panned out in the birthday message she received from daughter, Emma Kelley.

Mary Lou Retton, a de facto champion, celebrates born day in style 

On January 24, Emma Kelly shared an IG story commenting on mother Mary Lou Retton’s 56th birthday. In that story, Emma sent a heartfelt wish to her mom, saying, “Happy birthday, I love you so much.” After those lines, the Arkansas Razorbacks gymnast penned down,” you inspire me to never give up when things are tough”. That almost fell in the place most suitable as Mary Lou Retton exemplified the elements in the past few months. On October 10, 2023, McKenna Kelley had narrated her mother’s situation as “fighting for her life” as a rare form of pneumonia, had sent Mary into the ICU. The familiar ones, including the daughters, had left hope of her revival. But sailing on the esteemed fighting persona, Mary Lou Retton, had ensured her return from death. 

In that recovery process, certain issues had also sneaked in. A lack of health insurance and a late divorce had dismantled the whole expenses of treatment. However, Mary’s four daughters had played a pivotal role in turning over the page that had riled up the situation. The recovering mother also had acknowledged several times. 

The recovering days are a beacon of hope for the Retton household

On acknowledging her daughters’ role in recovery, Mary Lou Retton had disbursed some positive notes on IG. “I’m with family continuing to slowly recover and staying very positive as I know this recovery is a long and slow process.” That mood remained with her when she appeared on the Today Show, her first public appearance after the pneumonia fiasco. In that interview, the 56-year-old former gymnast went one step ahead, claiming, “I just thought I was a washed-up old athlete, but the love touched me.” So the family bonding came out as another champion meanwhile. 

Read more: Months After Mary Lou Retton Battling in the ICU, Daughter Reveals Real Reason for Not Getting Health Insurance

On her IG feed, Mary Lou Retton had also once confirmed to “help others who may face the same battle” as hers. Now the 56th year of her life would want to see her continuing the motivational color. 

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