BOERNE, Texas – Mary Lou Retton, the former Olympic gymnast, has given her first interview since being hospitalized for a rare form of pneumonia. During an exclusive interview with Hoda Kotb, Retton shared her experience and expressed her gratitude for being alive. The interview, conducted at her home in Boerne, Texas, will air on TODAY on January 8.
Retton, who is currently recovering at home, revealed that she had spent a month in the intensive care unit and is now using a portable oxygen apparatus to help her lungs heal. The 55-year-old athlete, known for her privacy, admitted that opening up about her health struggles was a departure from her usual interviews focused on her Olympic triumphs.
During the interview, Retton described the severity of her illness, revealing that she came close to being put on life support. She stressed the seriousness of her condition and expressed her gratitude for being alive.
Retton’s four daughters were informed of her critical condition during the early days of her hospitalization. They were even advised to consider putting their mother on a ventilator. The Olympic champion’s daughters updated the public about their mother’s health through social media, requesting support and assistance with medical expenses.
However, Retton’s path to recovery gradually unfolded, as her daughter shared that her mom was steadily recovering in the ICU. Despite the setback that followed, Retton eventually entered recovery mode and was able to return home. She acknowledged that the journey to full recovery would be a long one.
In her first public statement, Retton expressed her optimism and determination to recover. On Thanksgiving, she conveyed her gratitude for life and the love and resilience that surround her.
Mary Lou Retton’s interview provides insight into her battle with pneumonia and her journey towards recovery. Her story serves as a reminder of the preciousness of life and the strength of the human spirit.