Mary Lou Retton’s Daughters Express ‘Gratitude’ For Over $400K In Donations

Retired gymnast Mary Lou Retton is still fighting for her life in the ICU, but it looks like she is on the mend.

Her four daughters have revealed that the Olympic gold medal-winning gymnast was suffering from a "rare form of pneumonia" that made it difficult for their mother to breathe. Fortunately, after asking for only $50,000 in donations to fund her medical care, fans have opened their pockets and donated over $400,000 to fund her medical expenses.

On Sunday, October 15, her daughter McKenna Kelley took to Instagram to share some “uplifting news” with the world. “UPDATE! We’re thrilled to share some uplifting news. Mom’s progress is truly remarkable. Prayers have been felt and are being answered,” the message began.

“Although she remains in the ICU, her path to recovery is steadily progressing. Her fighting spirit is truly shining!” the message continued. “Her breathing is becoming stronger, and her reliance on machines is diminishing.”

“Though it’s a lengthy journey, witnessing these improvements is incredibly heartening! She’s begging to respond to treatments. Once more, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your overwhelming love and support,” the message concluded. Comments on the Instagram post were disabled.

Last week, the 55-year-old gymnast's eldest daughter, Shayla Kelley Schrepfer, told People magazine that their “number one concern” is the well-being of their mother, adding, “That being said, being by her side is our first priority.” The update followed an Instagram video posted on Wednesday, October 11. At the time, Shayla said that her mother was “still fighting” for her life in the ICU and thanked fans for their support during this difficult time.

“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 said. “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.”

On Tuesday, October 10, Mary Lou Retton’s daughter McKenna Kelley started a Spotfund page in order to finance her mother's health scare. Although the family had initially only asked fans to contribute $50,000 to their mother's healthcare fund, over eight thousand donors have contributed over $435,000 as of Monday, October 16.

“My amazing mom, Mary Lou, has a very rare form of pneumonia and is fighting for her life. 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 wrote in the plea.

“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 continued. “ANYTHING, absolutely anything, would be so helpful for my family and my mom. Thank y’all so very much!”

Many fans took to the comments to explain why they wanted to contribute to the retired gymnast’s healthcare fund. “I hope you get better. I remember you when I was younger and all the good things that you did for the USA. Thoughts and prayers,” one anonymous user wrote after donating ten dollars.

“Dear Mary Lou, I am Praying for your strength and recovery. You gave us a lot of joy throughout the years and I’m forever grateful for your talent beautiful smile and sweet spirit! The least we can do is take care of you. Get well soon!” wrote Clauvette Hartway, who donated twenty dollars.

“I have NEVER forgotten Mary Lou, never. She is still the BEST Olympic gymnast ever in My Book. God bless her & I pray she recovers quickly. Love & prayers!” wrote H. Nokes, who donated eight dollars.

“I’ve loved you since age 6. You’ve inspired me to be athletic and fit. Sending love energy!” added another anonymous user, who donated $50 dollars to her healthcare fund.