Mary Lou Retton, the glorious star of the USA gymnastics has been a name to ring through years in the nation. It was in 1984 that the gymnast was the first American woman to win the all-around gold medal in Olympic gymnastics. A fabulous routine on the ground and determination helped Retton etch a name in the field for years to come.
However, as the icon emerged victorious from the battles on the mats, she was faced with the most difficult of them all post-retirement; being diagnosed with a rare condition of pneumonia. But Retton being the fighter she is, knew not to succumb to the unkind situation.
It’s mixed emotions for the Retton family in the latest update
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Early last month, Mary’s daughter, McKenna Kelley took to her social media to reveal that the famed gymnast was fighting a life-threatening situation in the ICU. However, fast forward a month, McKenna’s recent Instagram update has a shifted tone; filling the enthusiasts with relief and happiness. However, it isn’t all smooth for Retton’s daughter during the holiday season; battling the meal preparations.
“Almost threw up like 5 times. There’s something nasty about this whole thing,” Kelly wrote, sharing a picture of her and supposed chef Blake Blackmar smiling. The two posed before a turkey on the table preparing for the Thanksgiving celebrations. “But couldn’t do this without @blake_blackmar expertise,” she added further.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The gymnastics icon’s journey through darkness
On October 10th last month, McKenna announced that Retton had encountered a life-threatening situation with a medical case. The situation obliged the gymnastics icon to battle on life support though detailed reports remain unclosed. However, that wasn’t the worst of it for the family. In the shared video, Kelly shared that they have no funds for hospital bills. The announcement gathered supporters in numbers to lend a hand.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The collective response from the enthusiasts was a light in the darkness for the family. With accumulated $453,123 by late October, Retton found a backing to stay put. And on the 23rd, the gymnast was finally on the road to home and recovery. ?We still have a long road of recovery ahead of us,??the eldest daughter wrote on Instagram. ?But baby steps.??With constant updates, the family presents to be walking down the wellness path to the relief of the fans.
Watch This Story ??Simone Biles Opens Up About the Daily Anxiety Struggles That Even a Champion Can?t Escape