Retired gymnast Mary Lou Retton is still fighting for her life in the ICU, but it looks like she’s on the mend.
Her four daughters have revealed that the Olympic gold medal-winning gymnast suffered from a “rare form of pneumonia” which left their mother struggling to breathe. Fortunately, after asking for just $50,000 in donations to fund his medical treatment, fans have opened their pockets and donated over $400,000 to cover his medical expenses.
Mary Lou Retton’s Daughters Share ‘Uplifting’ News About Her Health Scares
Instagram | McKenna Kelley
On Sunday, October 15, his daughter McKenna Kelley took to Instagram to share some “exciting news” with the world. “UPDATE! We are very excited to share some exciting news. Mother’s progress is amazing. Prayers have been felt and answered,” the message began.
“Although he is still in the ICU, his path to recovery is progressing. His fighting spirit really shines!” the message continues. “His breathing is getting stronger, and his dependence on the machine is decreasing.”
“Despite the long journey, witnessing these improvements has been exciting! He begs to respond to treatment. Once again, we sincerely thank you for your incredible love and support,” the message concluded. Comments on Instagram posts have been disabled.
Mary Lou’s Daughters Reveal Their ‘First Priority’ In Their Mother’s Recovery
Last week, the 55-year-old gymnast’s eldest daughter, Shayla Kelley Schrepfer, told People magazine that their “number one concern” was their mother’s well-being, adding, “That being said, being by her side is our number one 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 going to be a day-by-day process, and we hope you all will respect his boundaries because we want to keep the details between him and our family for now,” he said. “He has been treated by the best of the best professionals here and it’s been a blessing to hold their hands, so please keep the prayers up and we can’t thank you enough for the love and support you’ve shown.”
Mary Lou Retton Has Received Over $400,000 in Donations
Instagram | Mary Lou Retton
On Tuesday, October 10, Mary Lou Retton’s daughter McKenna Kelley started a Spotfund page to fund her mother’s health issues. Although the family initially only asked fans to contribute $50,000 to their mother’s health care fund, more than eight thousand donors have contributed more than $435,000 as of Monday, October 16.
“My amazing mother, Mary Lou, has a very rare form of pneumonia and is fighting for her life. He can’t breathe on his own. He has been in ICU for over a week now. To respect him and his privacy, I will not reveal all the details. However, I will disclose that he is uninsured,” McKenna wrote in the plea.
“We ask that if you can help in any way, 1) you PRAY! and 2) if you can help us financially for the hospital bills,” he continued. “Anything, anything, would really help my family and my mom. Thank you very much!”
Fans Explain Why It’s Important For Them To Donate To Mary Lou
Instagram | Mary Lou Retton
Many fans took to the comments to explain why they wanted to contribute to the retired gymnast’s healthcare fund. “I hope you get well. I remember you when I was young and all the good things you did for the US. Thoughts and prayers,” wrote one anonymous user after donating ten dollars.
“Dear Mary Lou, I am Praying for your strength and recovery. You give us a lot of joy throughout the year and I am 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 never forgot Mary Lou, never. She is still the BEST Olympic gymnast ever in My Book. God bless him & I wish him a speedy recovery. Love & prayers!” wrote H. Nokes, who donated eight dollars.
“I have loved you since I was 6 years old. You have inspired me to be athletic and fit. Sending love energy!” added another anonymous user, who donated $50 dollars to his health care fund.
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Source: thtrangdai.edu.vn/en/
