Mary Lou Retton, an iconic American gymnast, is fighting for her life after contracting a rare form of pneumonia. Her daughters have been sharing updates on her health, and the latest finally comes with a sign that things may be turning for the better.
Mary Lou was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit earlier this month.
Mary Lou, who is best known for winning the all-around women's gymnastics competition at the 1984 Summer Olympics, has been battling a severe health issue this month.
Her daughters, Shayla and McKenna, have been updating fans on how their mom has been doing, and a new update looks promising.
Mary Lou is progressing in the right direction.
In a statement posted to Instagram on October 14, the daughters gave an update on their mom’s health.
"We're thrilled to share some uplifting updates! Mom's progress is truly remarkable! Prayers have been felt and have been answered."
"Although she remains in the ICU, her path to recovery is steadily unfolding. Her fighting spirit is truly shining! Her breathing is becoming stronger, and her reliance on machines is diminishing," they continued in the post.
'Though it's a lengthy journey, witnessing these improvements is incredibly heartening! She’s responding so well to treatments,' they wrote.
The daughters also took the time to thank fans who have been offering support while respecting boundaries.
"Once more, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your overwhelming love and support," Shayla and McKenna added to their update.
Last week, McKenna shared on social media that her mom had been in the ICU for “over a week” and asked people for support.
Explaining that her mom had been diagnosed with a 'very rare form' of pneumonia, she asked for financial help as her mom 'continues to fight.'
Linking to a Spotfund page dedicated to her mom, which has since raised more than $430,000, McKenna gave some details on what’s been going on with the former gymnast.
"My amazing mom, Mary Lou, has a very rare form of pneumonia and is fighting for her life," she shared.
"She is not able to breathe on her own. She’s been in the ICU for over a week now. Out of respect for her and her privacy, I will not disclose all details. However, I will disclose that she [is] not insured," McKenna continued.
"We ask that if you could help in any way, that 1) you PRAY! and 2) if you could help us with finances for the hospital bill," she concluded.
Last week, Shayla updated fans, saying, her mom was 'still fighting.'
“It’s gonna be a day by day process, and we hope that you guys will respect her boundaries because we want to keep the details between her and our family right now,” she explained on social media.
Shayla added, “She’s been treated by the best of the best professionals here and it has been such a blessing to have their hands on her, so please continue the prayers and we cannot thank you enough for the love and support that you guys have shown.”
In addition to McKenna and Shayla, Mary Lou also shares daughters Skyla and Emma with ex-husband Shannon Kelley.
