Mary Lou Retton says she faced 'death in the eyes' while in ICU

Legendary Olympic gymnast Mary Lou Retton speaks exclusively to TODAY’s Hoda Kotb about the fight for her life with a rare form of pneumonia that landed her in the ICU for a month and the outpouring support from her fans. “I have so much to look forward to. I’m a fighter.”
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#marylouretton #olympics #health

[@sarahbean6170]

Mary Lou Retton was my hero as a 10 year old kid! She still is!

[@jjhammond1]

That was an outstanding interview by Hoda. She threaded the needle perfectly by balancing journalism and compassion. Every journalism professor ought to use this interview in their classes and every journalism student ought to study and deconstruct this.

[@MsVictory1945]

But she didn't mention her grifter daughters raising money for her care when she is a millionaire!!!!!

[@RobertJohnson-bj5lk]

@@MsVictory1945. Hoda is a millionaire?

[@beepboop9464]

​@@MsVictory1945 You realize hospital treatments like this often can cost 100's of thousands of dollars. I almost guarantee she doesn't have that kind of cash liquidated for hospital bills. Did she marry someone very rich? You realize Olympic athletes only make money from sponsors and since she won in the 80s I just don't think she has the amount of money you think she does.

[@heythere1640]

Are you for real?? You may disagree with MLR politically (and I’m sure that’s where 99% of the hate is coming from), but neither MLR or her daughters are grifters or thieves. You will never convince me that they had the money for medical bills but chose to scam the public. Why can’t people be kind humans with a little compassion? It honestly knocks me to my knees to see how hateful people can be.

[@winonabannon8556]

@@MsVictory1945 How do you know her financial status?

[@Jennifer-nu4ft]

"I thought I was just an old washed up athlete", that you will NEVER be!! You are a inspiration to so many. You just keep showing the world that big heartfelt, contagious smile of yours. 🙏

[@karengorzkowski2446]

I was hospitalized with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome in 1997. I was on a ventilator, and was in the hospital for 12 weeks. I was given a 10% chance of survival, and at one point was given the Last Rites. I made it, and life is good! Mary Lou is indeed lucky! She’s incredibly brave and courageous. She will always be America’s Sweetheart. ❤️🤸🥇

[@reidx512]

So glad you are doing well now... Prayers

[@LQOTW]

What wonderful news for you ❤‍🩹 Congratulations and a thousand blessings on you for a long and happy life, my dear!

[@AllenJones-w3p]

Mary Lou, you ars one of the greatest names in the world of sports! Thank you for having.the courage to openly discuss your recent health issues. Get better, MLR!

[@jcking6785]

Never, never doubt what a positive influence you have been, Mary Lou!

[@LadyLakeMusic]

Crying watching this. I was horribly sick and the hospital was baffled and scrambling. I said goodbye to my kids. I had an infection they missed. 💯 I get this. God Bless her 💕

[@hopeonwisdom8780]

MaryLu you changed my life. I was a former gymnast when you won, and inspired me to go back and finish. So I went to UCLA and completed my career. And you made it OK to have muscles. That gave every gymnast permission to have a muscular build instead of an emaciated body. You freed us all. Thank you. I prayed for you when you were sick. So glad you are still here. Love you sister.

[@2CheekyRabbits]

Those are some really powerful words. I’m really glad you commented 🙏

[@blue-fj9ky]

Beautiful post. I hope she sees it!

[@Thewhippedhippie]

I am glad you’re getting better. I watched my wife suffocate from Covid! She fought 43 days. I was beside her the whole time. So thankful you pulled through. The grief from losing her is overwhelming at times.

[@KindCountsDeb3773]

I'm so sorry. I'm sure you were comforting to her, even if not always by her physically.

[@tinacaraco1893]

My heart hurts for your pain and loss. She’s just in an adjacent dimension, still blessing you with her love. Stay positive for you and her. 💐

[@hbennett5640]

So sorry❤

[@madboyreadynow28]

I am a 50 year old black man. Mary Lou was like an inspiration to me as a kid growing up. I was an athlete. I played sports and was a track star and I wanted to be an Olympian because of her. I made it to the Jr Olympics when I realized how many talented Americans would represent our country. I remember being a young man with a crush on Mary Lu. I remember she married this very tall guy. I also remember when she had her first child and this is the first time getting to see that young woman as an adult. I don’t blame Mary Lu for being so private with her life. She is still Americas sweetheart and she needs to know this. Millions of Americans of all races fell in love with her, we cheered for her and we’re cheering now for her. I am in Texas. I heard years ago she loves close to my area. I always hoped to see her out and about. I may have and never realized it was her. I wish Mary Lu good health going forward. So happy she’s still with us.

[@lucyfoster4082]

This is beautiful.

[@tbelle5]

When my dad was 86 he got Covid. Everyone else was getting put on ventilators. They put him on heated high flow oxygen and he is still here with me today. Praise God!

[@markchasse8992]

Yes! He dodged the "Run Death is Near" aka Remdesivir 47% mortality rate + ventilator 97% mortality.

[@celticsunise4ever]

​@@markchasse8992 🎯 🎯

[@chrisfry436]

so is that basically like a cpap machine?? that is what they do....

[@missygee531]

🙏🙏🙏

[@Gabby0770]

Ummm that's a step before bipap, then vent is last resort.

[@janetr5929]

You can really feel how grateful she is to have made it. What a sweet, strong woman. She’s so tiny. I pray for her continued recovery.

[@Stacey19962]

Getting old is so scary. I am almost 60 and watching age take over is hard. People forget we were young and strong.

[@kim71749]

Yes, it is.

[@reidx512]

I am 48 and YES it is scary... 48 is not the new 30 anything... supplements, prayers, rest, sleep, rest oh and eating right...ugh

[@finlav335]

@@reidx512 and exercise. Most people are missing that, hopefully not just couch potatoes.

[@reidx512]

SO SO true... it is vital, especially as we age... Blessings @@finlav335

[@jjk2one]

@@reidx512 supplements are a scam

[@cyco6991]

“A washed up old athlete”? Hearing that broke my heart😢. I remember watching the Olympics that year. I remember seeing her everywhere, from TV to cereal boxes, her smile lit up America. It was fantastic! Praying for you continued recovery.

[@SimplyThirdStreet]

OMG! I had the same experience with my pneumonia! They told me I has scarlet fever and sent me home. Three days later I crawled on the floor to the phone and called my mom for help. I was criticized at the ER for ‘not giving the antibiotics (given three days before) time to work’. I was left in a room alone for four hours with no one checking on me. Finally the Doctor came back in with test results and sincerely apologized, telling me I had very bad pneumonia, was very sick, and was being admitted. I continued to decline for a week before a specialist came and said it was a rare form and changed treatment. I had surgery and lost 1\3 of my right lung. I was in the hospital for a month. It took 6 months total to really recover. I always wonder if they had taken me seriously at the start would things have changed? I nearly died.

[@jonitherrien7632]

I’m sorry you had to go through that. Prayers!

[@SimplyThirdStreet]

@@katydid6920 so sorry

[@jeanniearnold6726]

@@katydid6920you are valuable. Don’t let them tell you that ❤from Texas

[@HollyCranfan]

So sorry that happened. Healing prayers.

[@tgm2754]

Yes. It would have been different. Your story is one of THOUSANDS who were very sick , including myself, and dismissed by the medical professionals they trusted. It is so wrong. But we are alive. And wiser, to the shortcomings of the American Medical system. Yet on a positive note, I met some of the most wonderful, nurses, health aids and caring female doctors. They never doubted my symptoms and I am thankful.

[@johnsnyder2624]

The love in her daughters eyes when looking at her mom is priceless...we love you Mary Lou

[@Jared.Alen.Brandon]

When I hear her name, I think of a champion. Even today. She's still USA's champ.

[@PaulNDeputy]

Powerful interview. I am 77 and clearly remember the Olympic win. Even with a pinnacle like that, you can still experience the range of life. Glad she pulled out of this one. Keep going Mary Lou

[@TeresaKayWilliams]

“…the range of life.” What an insightful comment! So well said.

[@SylviaStrauss-u9u]

I just lost my mom 2 weeks ago from pneumonia. I can relate to her daughters. Watching her with her machine it brings everything back. God bless you Marylou.

[@Kristen71]

I am so sorry for your loss. 💔🕊️🙏

[@lorettaj6995]

So sorry for your loss of your Mom. Prayers for you and your family. 🙏💔

[@SylviaStrauss-u9u]

Thank you for your prayers. My mom is with my dad. My mom is My hero. She fought for soooooo long & she never gave up. My dad died almost 27 Years ago and looks like yesterday when he died. Thank you for your kind words.....

[@MarthaMagruder-fd2bh]

We lost my sister to pneumonia in 2001. She was only 46. She never had any lung issues.

[@janpsillos5513]

Sorry to hear about your loss.

[@bambooblue74]

Mary Lou was the only athlete in the 1984 Olympics I could resonate with. She made me want to be a gymnast. Every cartwheel and attempted flips by me and my friends was inspired by Mary Lou. Speedy recovery Mary Lou!!

[@tracyturner-browne4012]

Me too!!!! She was so inspiring! And I was already a gymnast at the time, and she seemed close to my age, so I was just in love!😊

[@francesjolly5106]

Every smile,all grace

[@mandycolley5852]

Every move was perfect and she did that last jump in pain with a broken ankle. 💔 she is one of my heros. She is AMAZING. GET WELL SOON 😇 ANGEL WE ALL LOVE YOU. AMERICAS SWEETHEART. LOVE FROM TENNESSEE XOXO 😘

[@tykoz427]

I had the Mary Lou haircut in 84 and I was at Disney when the Olympians came through❤

[@sportymcsports]

We had old school 80’s carpet that had a grid pattern of squares on it and if I followed one row, I could pretend I was on the balance beam. I have the fondest memories of trying so many times to be like Mary Lou. She was so inspiring. ❤️

[@TheBennik]

I remember seeing her live in 1984 winning her Olympic Medals. I was about 12. To see her like this now is a constant reminder: TIME always moves forward and we don't stay young and healthy forever. So to you young ones: Don't waste your life

[@seanmc7128]

My God I forgot just how tiny Mary Lou is. I'm so glad she's out of the hospital and I hope she has a complete recovery soon.

[@gabriellagrace4734]

When she was walking next to Hoda I thought the same. I didn’t know she’d was that tiny. Bless her heart! What a beautiful soul filled woman.

[@Darkest-Kn1ght]

@@gabriellagrace4734 Kinda difficult to think back to the Olympics and remember he being that tiny, she strutted around like she owned the place, and guess what, SHE DID OWN THE PLACE!! Woman may have been under 5' tall but she looked every inch of 10' with her performances!

[@kimbok5971]

Bless her heart, she looks exhausted. Glad to see she is recovering. Godspeed, Mary Lou.

[@carmarasmussen8118]

She's such an Itty bitty little thing but that spitfire personality is still there!

[@ronster369]

I'd be exhausted too, if I were a MAGA anti-vaxxer who chose not to have health insurance that just got COVID and had a load of daughters begging people for a handout when MLR was worth over 2 million. You see, her medical bills would have cut into their inheritance. That's the true story.

[@julies.2543]

@@ronster369 So loving and tolerant of you. And a lot of assumptions you're making; do you have firsthand knowledge of the situation? Did you watch the part of the video where they said they tested her for COVID and she didn't have it? Take your hate somewhere else.

[@pacmanc8103]

@@ronster369That’s a very nasty comment, really. How was it necessary?

[@SPIRITUALBATTLER]

@@ronster369 You sound like a sad person.

[@unknown-lf6zx]

My college teammate who was an Olympic hopeful died of pneumonia at 40 and was so healthy. This hits home and so glad Mary Lou is okay!!! She was my childhood idol!

[@desratlinda8639]

How did your friend contact it?? Was it a rare form too?

[@johnhedtke7571]

Did she get the Safe stab, and 15 booster boosters? Just asking for a friend. Sorry for MLR and you. But this just in, people die. Healty or not.

[@2fas4ya]

I am so sorry about your college teammate, 40 is VERY young & for a healthy athletic person it’s tragic! Was it the same type of pneumonia again I am sorry for your loss?

[@stayingconnected7292]

⁠@@johnhedtke7571I’m hoping you’re a bot because if you actually call yourself human, humanity is lost.

[@bsrk3170]

@@johnhedtke7571 MLR got no “stabs”, lives in a mansion and CHOSE not to have insurance. Sorry she’s sick but the nerve of begging for $ to pay for her bills. I hope this sickness has made her rethink her priorities.

[@timprescott4634]

When Mary Lou nailed that final perfect vault, this (then young) Soldier immediately cheered and choked up. Just watched it again and it STILL has the same effect on this old, retired Soldier. What a supreme athlete!❤

[@ytzpilot]

She was so inspirational at the Olympics and I keep telling the younger generation that she was what athletes were like before the era of social media influencers

[@charleneandrle-olson3099]

So true! She's what an athlete should be.

[@SharkyJ40]

She was exactly who I looked up to as a little gymnast in the early 90’s. I wrote a book report on Mary Lou! 🥹💓

[@caseysanborn1953]

Had tears in my eyes through this whole interview because I remember her so fondly as an Olympian. She was a major inspiration for me becoming a gymnast for many years. She's still lights up the room, is an inspiration, and a tough as nails fighter.

[@marianieto1237]

Me too!! I was born in ‘87 so I never witnessed her winning the gold medal but I’ve heard about her and this interview brought me to tears when she said that her daughters were saying their goodbyes. I can’t imagine what they were going through, but I am so glad that she made a turn for the better! She certainly seems like a fighter and I love her spirit!

[@highrawvegan]

ditto!

[@itmattersnot1216]

Heartbreaking that the hospital tried to just let her die.

[@Former_Pastor]

Honestly, she must have aged 30 years in there

[@rion-cd8kg]

I hope you donated thousands of dollars to her Go GoFundMe page.

[@kaebella2259]

I was a 14 yr old gymnast myself when she won the gold medal! She was every female gymnasts idol! Literally had a poster of her on my wall growing up! Glad she is on the mend. ❤

[@DianaDeLuna]

Me too. 14 years old and crazy about gymnastics, which I competed in since I was 8. 😭

[@gerardguida7727]

Mary Lou is part of American History....❤ ❤🇺🇸🙏♥️♥️

[@jlcmsw]

As someone who has a chronic illness and used to figure skate, I know how hard it is to be struck down with health problems. Mary Lou is indeed a fighter and I have faith she will get through this.

[@phillyjilly]

❤❤

[@dotdotscottschott7529]

Prayers to you as well

[@DecolonialRhetoric]

Praying for MaryLou’s full recovery! And for good health care to become more affordable to all.

[@kathynoury676]

They have made it more affordable to all. Obamacare is subsidized based on income and is very affordable if you have low income. Maybe she makes a ton of money, then it's not as affordable because it's not subsidized. But if she has a ton of money she should have health insurance.

[@Dusk1962]

@@kathynoury676Obamacare is worst insurance period. Grow up.

[@SUGAR_XYLER]

​​@@Dusk1962 True. I've heard many complaints about it and it's pricey

[@Cheryl_Haydon]

Mary Lou was such an inspiration in 1984 and even more of an inspiration now. Her story is yet another testament to the fact that your life can change in an instant. Praying for her full and complete recovery!

[@dianamoyer]

I only know the name of one gymnast, and that's Mary Lou Retton. That is how impactful she was in my life. The state of our healthcare system remains grim. I'm so glad she is on the road to recovery.❤

[@dianamoyer]

@Look_What_You_Did the same one that initially sent her home to die.... yes, that one. Also the same one that left my mother in a room with no oxygen when it was ordered, no IV, no monitors, and no call button immediately after she had a heart attack and then argued with me about whether or not she had an IV until I challenged them to show me where it was and didn't apologize for being disrespectful and rude to me when they saw that she didn't have one or oxygen. It took me saying lawsuit for them to do their jobs! However, I was talking about healthcare insurance.

[@hals1fineday]

She is not on the road to recovery guys. This kind of damage in the lungs is permanent. The lungs appear white in X-ray and like shattered glass all over.

[@melissapoole8580]

I am BAWLING!!!!! I am so grateful Mary Lou survived this. To see the love in this interview is amazing. God bless you, Mary!!!!!

[@leeleemee]

SHE IS OUR GIRL ❤😊

[@p.merle7-11]

Forever and always! You go Girl❤❤

[@idaslapter5987]

After a major surgery last year, I had difficulty breathing post-op because of a bad reaction to the anesthetic. Not being able to get a good breath is the most frightening feeling. Speedy recovery, Mary Lou!

[@keithchartrau]

Mary Lou continues to shine! She's a national treasure. Speedy recovery!

[@llm4132]

Exactly, a national treasure. Well said.

[@cristleheart4266]

Not the same anymore!! She was great!! Someone who worked hard to earn that medal!! Woman to respect and look up to!! No drama!!❤ get well fast!!

[@loribott6119]

Such a huge soul in that tiny body. God bless her, and may he lay his hand of healing on her.

[@lisablinn3264]

I'm glad she is recovering. She was an incredible athlete and positive role model for kids.

[@naturebound2901]

I watched my husband go from healthy and active in his 50s to dependent on 10 liters of oxygen at rest due to end stage lung disease. It was a horrific time. He was ashamed of having to wear oxygen and would hide a lot. There are so many misconceptions about people who wear oxygen (they are NOT all smokers people). He had a double lung transplant and got his life back. I have the utmost compassion for anyone going through such a life changing health issue. We are praying for your Mary Lou Retton!

[@theynot4u]

I'm happy your husband is doing well!

[@enfelice]

I'll bet anyone $450,000 that she didn't have insurance because she didn't want Obamacare, not because she couldn't afford it. She was a vocal opponent of the ACA - which contains provisions to ensure that people with pre-existing conditions can get insurance. I'll go double or nothing that her 'mysterious' pneumonia was COVID and that she was unvaxxed.

[@lindahandley5267]

Whaf a miracle! I hope that Mary Lou gets hers!🌹

[@AcieWHA]

As a little girl born in the late 70’s with a myopic muscle disease all I wanted was to be a gymnast like Mary Lou. I still remember watching her in the 80’s and thinking “Wow how does she get her body to do that”. She was and is such an inspiration. I wish her all the best .. ❤🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@zzizahacallar]

She's an inspiration ❤

[@AcieWHA]

@@zzizahacallar indeed

[@Jenny-nk1et]

Me too.

[@karenneill9109]

I remember thinking the same… how can that be! I now know that I have a connective tissue disease, that’s why I couldn’t do it.

[@joannasarcamedes8191]

That made me cry to see her like that and be so couragous to do an interview but we are all glad she is going to make it. We all remember her Olympic days and we were so proud of her. I hope and pray she makes a full recovery. God Bless her and her family.

[@1971_sabrina]

Praying for her full recovery! She is so sweet.I remember as a teenager watching her win in the ‘84 Olympics! Go Mary Lou!

[@dontbanmebrodontbanme5403]

If you were alive and older than 10, it was impossible not to remember her. The thing I remember most about her performances was the power she generated. She was almost too powerful with her flips and tumbles and I always felt she struggled sticking some of her landings because she was like a bull. It's a shame that we live in such a rich country, yet even someone like her can't afford health insurance.

[@pattir6628]

This makes me tear up. Mary Lou is a national treasure and a bright light in this world.

[@deniseblanchard2156]

It makes me sad and upset to hear about the poor level of care she got at the first hospital 😢 I’m so glad she lived, and I hope she eventually makes a full recovery! Anyone who had the privilege of watching her win that gold medal could never forget her infectious smile and the joy she spread at that time ❤ PS. To know that this amazing woman could not afford health insurance in this first world country is tragic😢 That should never ever happen!

[@AmandaCadorna]

I mean there's Obamacare so....

[@Melissa0774]

@@AmandaCadorna Not in Texas. I don't think they took the Medicaid expansion. That's probably what the issue was.

[@GAN-0]

@@Melissa0774Texas offers ACA insurance plans(ObamaCare) her problem is she didn’t believe in healthcare until she was on death’s door. Then she had a miraculous come to Jesus moment…. Anti-vaxer 😂

[@2fas4ya]

That’s what I’m sayin!!! This SHOULD NOT happen in AMERICA!!!! She won a Gold Medal…is there anyway That USA Can honor our heroes With more than just zeroes ? This even goes for our first responders Including others whom sacrificed for our honor Blood sweat & tears In their younger years All too often shunned When the hero happens to be the one Who needs some assistance Because of life’s circumstance Should NEVER happen any day Especially NOT here in the US of A Not to me, not to you But it should’ve NEVER happened to MARY LOU America we need to do better…..just sayin!😢

[@christineh4782]

If she were here illegally she would have gotten the care she needed immediately.

[@loraliecataldi1975]

Mary Lou Retton was such an inspiration to me as a child. I was a lifelong victim of severe covert narcissistic abuse by both parents and lived my entire childhood years either in school (special ed) and immersed in 80’s sitcoms until Nintendo came along. At this time I developed early onset mental illness and couldn’t escape the pain but that entire period that the gymnastic Olympics where on I had something to look forward to and found myself in a state of Joy and in anticipation of Mary Lou’s Victory!!! I’m 48 now and this still brings me to tears because she was a life saver for me. I too almost died at age 24 from a rare form of Pneumonia, I was fine the day before and out of nowhere this cold chill entered my lungs and intervention was delayed due to a false reading of an XRay. It nearly killed me and took over 5 months for to regain my strength and get my appetite back. No one even thought to put me in the hospital. It’s nothing short of a miracle that I pulled through on antibiotics alone. I’m so glad she survived!!! It truly was one of the times I looked death straight in the face and lived to share my story. ♥️

[@WholeNewMom]

Wow so glad you are OK! There has to be a reason something like this is happening. Some vulnerability or odd exposure - something. Scary.

[@QuantumMech_88]

The doctors at the first hospital sent Retton home , instead of keeping her under observation for a minimum of 3 days while performing blood chemistry and other tests. Unbelievable. I wish Mary Lou all the best in 2024 and beyond.

[@veronicacollier8033]

I’m sure that stupid hospital sent her home because she didn’t have insurance to pay the bill. What have we come to when hospitals won’t help people without insurance and would rather them die.

[@LJB1308]

Well she should sue the pants off that hospital!

[@kasession]

Or a chest xray!!! A CHEST XRAY!!! DID THEY NOT DO ONE? 😲

[@carlenekingery8860]

Medical Care in the United States is decidedly deteriorating.

[@CPAndy-x5x]

Happened to people with COVID pneumonia. Unless you're ready for a ventilator, they don't want you spreading COVID thru the hospital.

[@Gravy314]

I just love Mary Lou. I’m also from WV and was in college when she won the Olympics. I knew some girls who knew her, and their jealousy was ugly. I used to see Mary Lou at the grocery store, and she was so tiny, and her smile was just as bright for the workers in the deli as it was for the TV cameras. Get well soon. ❤

[@MyDogSteppedOnaBeee]

She’s not a washed up athlete. She’s an American icon, and she deserves to be recognized.! I am glad she’s doing better and on her way to recovery 🙏

[@tom-ks6hz]

Absolutely! She broke my heart when she said that. She has no idea the value of her soul. I hope she realizes now, how loved and revered she is.

[@AnnLeiSoCal]

​@@karlwithak.She did not have health insurance and could not afford her medical bills. Her family raised the money via donations.

[@DollyTheLlama]

@@AnnLeiSoCal True. Sad to say, that may be the reason why the first hospital sent her home. I've dealt with rural hospitals before. They will put you off as long as they can if they don't think they'll be getting money anytime soon.

[@billywatson118]

Yeah! SO WHAT!

[@notozknows]

Positive attitude goes a long way.

[@mjrussell414]

Gosh -I’m Canadian and remember watching her at the Olympics and rooting for her way back then when I was a teenager. She was and is a ray of sunshine.

[@graham.a.phillips2811]

As someone who has COPD, I can empathise with Mary Lou. She'll always be the Perfect 10. Not because what she achieved. But with what she's going through now. The way she carries herself and endures. She'll always be an inspiration. Never give up Mary Lou. Because you are a truly amazing person. Your family is also truly amazing too. It's a shame that there is not the NHS in the US. Because I wouldn't be here if it was for the NHS.

[@loristromski1334]

They're talking about her not being able to pay 😮 only in Merica

[@graham.a.phillips2811]

@@loristromski1334 I know, that's why I said I wish they had a system like the NHS. Because health care under the NHS is free at the point of use and patients do not pay for health care, no matter what is wrong with someone. It doesn't matter if you're as rich as Elon Musk or homeless. Everyone is treated equally. I've had 2 cardiac arrests and 5 pulmonary arrests, 2 strokes and survived cancer 3 times. If I lived in the US, I wouldn't have been able to afford for my care, like Mary Lou. But thanks to the NHS in the UK, I'm still here. That's why I wished she could have had access to the same care as I do.

[@bridgieoh9326]

She would vote against it. She is a conservative. The GOPers only want it when they are desperate. They don't think of others.

[@peaceful525]

With all due respect to Mary Lou, she lives in a gorgeous home, drives a luxury vehicle and wears luxury clothing. It wasn't that she couldn't afford health insurance, it's that she didn't prioritize it. A cautionary tale for all. Necessities first. And please note: Mary Lou received world-class healthcare without being insured. Only in American, indeed. I pray she can fully recover.

[@graham.a.phillips2811]

@@peaceful525 hindsight is a wonderful thing they say. But there is no amount of planning when it comes to suffering what she's going through. I used to run Marathons in London, do high endurance running, hill running, played rugby, judo, karate and football (soccer) I was a volunteer police officer (Special Constable), Mountain Search and Rescue volunteer. But due to a genetic issue I developed COPD (Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency), where I inherited it from my Mum and Grandmother, who both suffered from emphysema. None of my 6 siblings developed this. But I drew the straw that I live with. I never smoked a day in my life. But like Mary Lou, I'm oxygen dependent and on a number of medications. Which I'm lucky to say costs me nothing. Luckily Mary Lou can use this to inspire others going through the same.

[@kathleenthompson3140]

Still has that beautiful smile and wonderful spirit. No matter what happens, she is a role model and someone to look up to.

[@Xane_Dragon]

Not really, my standards are a lot higher. I look up to people that pay their own way and are wise with money

[@Rnjeepshoelver]

@@Xane_Dragon same!!

[@reginaduke7451]

OMG when my friends and I heard about her illness, we went looking for where to donate! We love her so much! And we celebrated when she got out of ICU!!!! Sending all the love!!!!

[@lucilemcgregor]

She could’ve sold her medals to make money for insurance. Or her home(s). As she’s a republican she should be aware that it’s what her party recommends.

[@missy3236]

My thoughts exactly. She was present at a Trump rally in 2016. @@lucilemcgregor

[@Xane_Dragon]

Donating to a celebrity 🤣🤑

[@Rnjeepshoelver]

@@Xane_Dragon nothing dumber than, I agree

[@kathrynoneill5862]

I was 11 years old watching her in the 1984 Olympics. My mother was dying in the hospital from cancer. Watching her with my mother in that hospital room was my little bit of bonding i was able to have with my mother before she died. I'm so grateful for Mary Lou for that. She will never know what that meant to me. I love her and i have never met her. I will be praying for her everyday.

[@TeXXicJA]

Mary Lou was everywhere when I was a kid. She was a defining moment for many of us GenXers. I am so glad she is getting better. On a side note, I had no idea she was so tiny. She's little, but she's a fighter!

[@virginiamoss7045]

The smaller you are, the better able you are to control your body. Simone Biles is also tiny. Most gymnasts, dancers, figure skaters, ballerinas, and such are very small people.

[@denisejamison1742]

Agreed, not even close to a "washed up old athlete". MaryLou, you are a part of my childhood, I will never forget staying up late to watch you, and to watch you win! You were and are amazing, I wish you all the love and health!

[@funincolorado]

I will never forget Mary Lou and the impact she made on so many lives with her enthusiasm, positive spirit and one of a kind smile!! God bless you! Praying for complete healing!

[@dennisnbrown]

Great interview. Her smile is amazing and I am so happy she is good. Mary Lou is a national treasure and brings to mind a time when this country was unified. ❤️

[@tarakinsell6202]

It's terrible that she felt that way. It is so nice that she sees that she was wrong. We have always loved Mary Lou!

[@michellesimpsons356]

Still do. A legend.

[@MatthewsFav]

MaryLou is a fighter and I wish her a complete recovery.

[@SummerlinRealtor]

I lived in LA in 1984 during the Olympics and it was an amazing time. I wish I could experience that year all over again. I wish Mary Lou all my best and a speedy recovery. She is an American icon not a washed up athlete. All of us that grew up with you never will forget you and your Olympic performance!

[@enfelice]

She literally sold insurance in ads, and probably had free coverage while peddling that product. She was also in the anti vaccine camp, and 10 to 1 probably developed pneumonia as a result of Covid. She also has a house worth millions. Her kids just didn't want to miss out on the inheritance.

[@martinmackye9865]

​@@enfeliceI hope the most high relieves you of such toxic energy...im sure it's exhausting to carry.

[@olivionb]

Facts.

[@dougl945]

Me too… and I watched her win!

[@indy18286]

@@enfelice there is Obama care too. maybe her state doesn't have it but by law all states have to offer some form of Obama care.

[@BeeFunKnee]

Mary Lou Retton was filming her part in a Coca Cola commercial at the YMCA in Glendale I worked as a desk clerk at. I believe the year was 1992. I had suddenly encountered her several times outside the building as I was coming and going to and from work. She'd stop and speak with me as if she had all the time in the whole world to do so. Within seconds, her sincere smile would refresh my tired spirit, her words were right on the mark just as her gymnastic skills were. It's now been about 32 years, but I'll never forget those precious moments we talked together. It's great to see her still smiling. Her positive spirit is what this broken planet needs, too. And here I thought I was a tired old man, well, until I saw this video. Now I know better. I'm smiling as I type this, even!

[@BeeFunKnee]

@DonnellOkafor-pw7zc When she spoke with me, she had a genuine smile for me. "Down to earth" is a description that fits her honestly.

[@BeeFunKnee]

@DonnellOkafor-pw7zc You're very welcome... said humbly.

[@MyBizOnlu]

As someone who was on a vent on life support in 2016, I feel her emotions. Not remembering it all by itself is hard. I now have restrictive lung disease caused by vent,and get winded, but 6 ft above ground better than 6 ft below. Prayers she overcomes the need for oxygen and her lungs heal.

[@chericoffman6321]

It’s unsettling to see someone you thought was invincible in such a vulnerable, delicate state. May God bring her continued healing and grace.

[@jenniferhuff2566]

I’m so glad she pulled through. I was so shocked to hear she couldn’t afford medical insurance, it gos to show that we never know what another persons journey is. Bless you and your family.

[@dreamweaver662]

She couldn’t afford insurance but her net worth is 2 million….give me a break it’s called the rich keep getting richer off the poor…..I’ll save my money and spend yours…

[@dawnc5797]

@@dreamweaver662 I keep seeing comments like this. How do we know what her net worth is? No one other than herself, her husband and their financial advisor know this info for a fact.

[@dreamweaver662]

@@dawnc5797 after seeing this I googled her net worth

[@monicascott2354]

​@@dreamweaver662No kidding!!

[@monicascott2354]

​@@dawnc5797It's probably online like so many other celebs.

[@Yellow-Rose]

OMG that smile is unmistakable, it can only be Mary Lou Retton! This woman's spirit is indomitable. She is a ball of sunshine and an American icon. We were so proud of you back then Mary Lou, and we're still proud of you now!

[@becorations1]

Mary Lou is a legend! I’m so glad she’s up and doing better. I cried when I saw she wasn’t doing well. She will never be washed up in my eyes!

[@ASMR-Sammy]

Thank you Hoda for the compassion shown during your interview with Mary Lou Retton. She will always be a champion in our (USA) eyes! My daughter also developed a rare form of pneumonia around the same time and they couldn't figure out what caused it. She still struggles to get enough oxygen. I as well had to fight with the ER team to get her treatment. 12 hours later she was finally given IV fluids and medication. This is an eye opening lesson that we need to advocate for the vulnerable to get the needed medical help!

[@TonEva68]

So happy to come across this interview. I’ve been praying for you Mary Lou. God isn’t finished with you yet!!! I am 55 and remember being in awe of not just your talent and athleticism but how confident you were at such a young age. You handled yourself so well especially given the pressure you had to have felt being on the biggest stage an athlete could ever be on. ***Some of these young professional athletes should take note of how a true champion like Mary Lou handled herself at the peak of her career. She always remained kind, respectful, gracious, and classy. That’s why she is still to this day a true champion.

[@anabella2014]

💯!! ❤ Marylou 🎉

[@pedrolfernandez7286]

you are an inspiration Mary… been in love with u for over 40 years.. God bless you and your family.

[@paulaonah9881]

I am so happy to see her alive and getting better. She is an American icon and a wonderful, bubbly woman and so glad she is getting through this devastating illness.

[@oldschoolel]

Mary Lou was the reason I was a kindergarten gymnast. I am a lifelong fan. So glad she is healing.

[@CurlieGrl]

Mary Lou is such a treasure. I pray she makes a FULL recovery and gets back to her "normal" life with her lovely family. She deserves the best life has to offer. 💓

[@MizzyG37]

Mary lou was first gymnast i watched and got me hooked on watching gymnastics her confidence determination touched not just me but millions of females all over the world, amazing personality ❤ love from Liverpool England x

[@reginafallangie2867]

I wish I could tell her personally, that she was my childhood hero! She was, is, & ALWAYS will be *AMAZING!* 🥇

[@michellerie2259]

Mary Lou you are loved... always... never a washed up athlete! You are a national and world-wide treasure. Love and blessings go out to you and your family. Praying for a speedy recovery. Hoda was the right person for this amazing interview.

[@notozknows]

I'm a grumpy old man who hates many things but Mary Lou brought a big smile to my face, she is so nice and I hope for the best for her and the family. I thought by the title she might have had an NDE but she don't remember much. God Bless her.

[@MarianneKennedy-o7h]

Your not a grumpy old man, but a kind, loving gentleman who took the time to reach out to Mary Lou, one of America’s sweetest olympians! I’m 74 and have days when I feel 90, but life is good as long as you have love and people who care and are glad they have you. Getting older is a privilege, but at times, it’s a tough gig, right? You take care, and be happy. I personally think your lovely for taking time to reach out. We all need to be kind to one another and take care of one another.

[@ro7242]

IM SO GLAD THEY SHOWED MARY LOUS OLYMPIC MOMENTS IT REMINDS ME OF A BETTER TIME IN A AMERICA WHEN WOMAN WERE PURE AND BEAUTIFUL AND GYMNASTS SHOWED THERE BEAUTY AND MARY DID IT WELL,LOVE WATCHING HER AGAIN

[@kikili2472]

Mary Lou Retton was America's sweetheart. We will always hold her in our hearts!❤

[@karenneill9109]

I spend 8 weeks in hospital last year from an infection in my spine. I had a conversation with death when I was in the ICU. It’s a very rough journey. My heart goes out to her.

[@eyecandie2004]

🙏🙏

[@itsonlyme27]

Glad you made it through. Sounds awful! Prayers for you.

[@goserr5759]

But how did this happen neomonia

[@karenneill9109]

@@goserr5759 For me? I got the infection in my spine probably through my port. I had a port (like a permanent IV) for 24/7 Benadryl, due to an allergic condition I have. Somehow some bacteria lodged in my spine, and grew from there.

[@FrozenCrapholeDweller]

It breaks my heart to see such an icon fighting for her life like that. I hope she continues to recover and someday she gets back to her normal bubbly self. We love you!

[@reng.794]

Mary Lou you have been and always be a GOAT! That never gets old or written it---IT IS EARNED❤

[@charlesbutler7868]

Hard to believe it's been 40 years since Mary Lou won that gold medal in LA. Remember watching it on TV during summer break from college. She will always be a champion in everyone's eyes who lived during that time. Mary Lou, may God continue to bless you with continued strength for a complete recovery! 🙏🏾

[@supersports_videos]

Unfortunately Mary-Lou is extremely against any form of universal health insurance. She campaigned against Obama care--literally went on a tour and made speeches denouncing government subsidies for health insurance. She is extreme right wing. Very disappointing, she lives in a very big mansion she should have paid her OWN insurance, not asking people for donations. Outrageous.

[@roxannevlogs7329]

Ok but she is fighting for her life now ….we can support her now

[@monicascott2354]

​@supernasticsvideos Oh whaaaaat? Well, that explains ALL OF IT, doesn't it?

[@mildredmartinez8041]

What a lovely story of overcoming a serious illness, love and the support of many who didn't forget Mary Lou. Thank you Hoda.

[@alainajacobson5521]

Just seeing her smile brings back so many memories! I wish we had people like her for our kids to look up to as a goal setter. I don't ever remember a bad word about her. I'm happy she is on the mend. I hope she knows that she is seen as a national treasure.

[@Sally150]

Best wishes to Mary Lou Retton. She is such an inspiration to women and young girls. A real powerhouse in a little body.

[@ronj5714]

Mary Lou, sad to hear you couldn't afford insurance, but life takes sudden turns on us all, so don't be embarrassed. Happy to see you're recovering & are grateful for the gift of life & family. Thank you for opening up & telling us your story- powerful. You are an amazing woman & a super hero in the gymnastics arena. Thank you for representing all of us in the 80's- you made us all proud. Chin up girl. God bless you & your amazing family, we will be praying for you. And thank your neighbor- from me ❤

[@bethfenwick4442]

She's not embarrassed; she is (and we all should be) horrified that she couldn't afford insurance in the USA. It's disgusting.

[@butterflygirl2285]

IMO - People don't seem to understand that adequate, and reasonable costing healthcare, in the US, is not a given. In fact, if you don't have an employer who provides it or if you have pre-existing conditions it is a nightmare for the patient. Medicare, for the middle class, can cost an arm and a leg. Research how many individuals have to file bankruptcy due to astronomical health bills: even if those person does have insurance. In addition prescriptions, can be very expensive. The health care system is broken.

[@jean9l187]

​@@bethfenwick4442I'm not so sure about this. Obamacare representative were ready to help me with my health insurance coverage.

[@someoneoutthere2159]

It is illegal for an insurance company to discriminate based on preexisting conditions. I don’t buy that she couldn’t afford healthcare, I just don’t sorry something else is going on and it’s none of my business that is why I never would’ve donated to her “cause”.

[@Rnjeepshoelver]

@@someoneoutthere2159 same!

[@jillburkeen9553]

Someone of her legacy should never be uninsured. How does this happen? Great interview Hoda. Sending healing vibes and lots of healthy energy for a full recovery. I in October of 2022 had a rare pneumonia called eosinophilic and it was caused by my PICC line and the medication daptomycin that I was prescribed to put in my PICC line for MRSA. The gut wrenching feeling when you are told the doctors don't know what it is and thought I had non smokers lung cancer. My lungs are still trying to heal. Praying for you Mary Lou

[@carolynm8421]

She lives in a mansion in Texas but didn't think she'd need healthcare. Even her healthy younger self could have needed heathcare. She's a Trump supporter so perhaps he might pay off her bills and give her an allowance for doing a monthly anti-healhcare video for his campaign.

[@dawnback5333]

Never never a washed up athlete! You were a truly great human that inspired us all and gave us the best examples of being a good person!

[@msaurles5551]

Mary Lou Retton is such a sweetie. Doesn't she know she's like a timeless icon. I'm very glad she had pulled through and may she make a full and lasting recovery soon. After that, she should have a youtube channel. I think America like to see more of her in whatever she chooses to talk about or do.

[@midnightcrafter1618]

Mary Lou, I was 10 years old when you won gold. You made a huge impression on young girls in my time and are a symbol of American women in the Olympics. I will never forget watching you on TV in a small town in NC. You proved so much for young girls in my generation. God bless you and your family. Prayers for continued healing and good health. America loves you ❤️❤️❤️

[@mr.garlicman3134]

You do realize that Mary Lou does not see these comments do you?

[@angelaeide663]

​@mr.garlicman3134 you never know, she may!

[@midnightcrafter1618]

@@mr.garlicman3134 yes and I’m ok with that

[@2CheekyRabbits]

This happened to my mom - my beloved “MamaLama” (Buddhist) but she didn’t survive it. She took me to gymnastics and Mary Lou was such an inspiration to me. I adored her. I’m incredibly happy her family still has her. I guess if you’re meant to pull through your sickness, you pull through and if you’re meant to go, you go. Heartbreaking. RIP, Mama. Keep healing, Mary Lou 💐

[@MistBlues]

So very sorry you lost your mother this way. That sounds so hard. Cool you have the gymnastics and ML connection.

[@2CheekyRabbits]

Thank you. @@MistBlues

[@dorothystriano2007]

Eternal Rest grant unto MAMALAMA may her Soul and the Souls of ALL the departed Rest In Peace AMEN (I BELIEVE) Her pain is over AND just like Our Blessed Mother Mary she is with you and her loved ones Always

[@2CheekyRabbits]

@@dorothystriano2007 I trust and believe. Thank you 🙏

[@blastfromthepast185]

Mary Lou was America's Miss America. I have always thought so highly of her. How can anyone not love a girl like that with such inspiration and a killer smile.

[@cookieenthusiast6213]

Mary Lou Retton was such a wonderful athlete and person. She had (still has) such spirit. She was the heart of the athletics world for a long time.

[@beingkitschroeder2507]

I was in the ICU last year following a ruptured brain aneurysm. I was in a coma for two months, and the hospital and rehab center for a total of three months. A nurse in the ICU told my family I was going to die, but I made it through. Thankfully, I was at The Cleveland Clinic (for something unrelated) when it happened. I think that made all the difference. I had to learn how to walk all over again, and had pretty extensive physical and occupational therapy, as I somehow also lost the use of my arms. Fully recovered now a year later. 100% brain function, walking and reaching just fine.

[@Elizabeth-tb5wh]

Washed up old athlete??? Are you kidding!? I’m a West Virginian and you can believe me when I say that she is a state treasure! Prayers and much love Mary Lou! ❤️🙏🏻

[@flacadiabla3193]

That smile is one of the greatest smiles one can witness. Hoping many more years of smiles, Mary! All the best to you and your family.

[@michelleayres5608]

Mary Lou is awesome. She'll never be washed up.❤ America loves her!🇺🇸

[@carolwilder2289]

Mary Lou Retton is timeless. Prayers for continued healing!💕🙏💕

[@SouthernFried88]

Prayers don't heal....doctors do!

[@wendysmobilehomesweethome423]

I'm so happy to see this interview because I've wondered about how she was really doing. I'm so happy to see that she's home and on the road to recovery. God bless you, Mary Lou. You'll always be a champion!! ❤

[@lindafrance9192]

Hopefully she is on the road to recovery. They said the doctors don’t know much about this rare pneumonia, so it sounds like they can’t give a prognosis. Hopefully things will get better for her.

[@ChubbyUnicorn]

She's a giant, heroic spirit in such a tiny, tiny body. She was my hero in the 80s and even more so now. We are ALL just one moment away from ruin. Blessings to her.

[@honormurphy2329]

May Lou, I am so glad you have recovered . My daughter and I have been following your progress and are so thrilled you were able to spend Christmas at home with your family . What. a blessing . We will be praying for your full recovery . I was a college gymnasts and my daughter is a level 10. We actually saw you at the meet you sponsored in 2023 with McKenna. I was cracking up how you were standing by the floor exercise just going crazy watching the gymnasts floor routines. God has given you a bright light and I hope you know how much it means to so many people to keep on shining. your spirit is contagious !!! Dont give up fighting