Olympian Mary Lou Retton's Daughter Offers 'Uplifting' New Health Update
Mary Lou Retton
After more than a week in the ICU, where she's been "fighting for her life" against a rare form of pneumonia, former Olympian Mary Lou Retton seems to be on the mend.
Her daughter, McKenna Kelley, who first revealed her mother's plight via an Instagram Story on Oct. 10, took to the social media platform with a hopeful update on Oct. 14, sharing that the athlete is starting to respond to treatment.
"We're thrilled to share some uplifting news," she wrote in the graphic uploaded to her feed. "Mom's progress is truly remarkable. Prayers have been felt and are being answered."
Though Retton, 55, is still being treated in the ICU of an undisclosed hospital, Kelley says that she's "steadily progressing."
"Her fighting spirit is truly shining!" she continued. "Her breathing is becoming stronger, and her reliance on machines is diminishing." Previously, Kelley stated that her mother wasn't able to breathe on her own. It's unclear if she still requires the help of a ventilator at this time.
She still has a "lengthy journey" ahead of her, but McKenna wrote that it feels "incredibly heartening" to see the improvements that her mom has made so far.
At the end of her update, she thanked the gymnast's fans for their "overwhelming love and support."
The day after her mother's medical status was made public, she asked for prayers as her mother continued her difficult fight, thankfully under the "incredible care" of her medical team.
Folks have sent more than their "positive thoughts," raising nearly $425 thousand dollars to contribute to her medical care so far, as the five-time Olympic medalist is reportedly uninsured.
Next: Mary Lou Retton's 'DWTS' Partner Sasha Farber Gives Update Amid Olympian’s Health Crisis
