US gymnastics icon Mary Lou Retton expressed gratitude for surviving a rare pneumonia battle in an interview with Hoda Kotb on the Today Show. The 55-year-old Olympic gold medalist was admitted to a Texas hospital’s intensive care unit in October 2023. Initially fighting for her life and unable to breathe without assistance, Retton, typically a private person, decided to share her story due to its seriousness.

She conveyed immense gratitude for being alive, emphasizing, “I am blessed to be here because there was a time when they were about to put me on life support.” The emotional interview aired on Monday, preceded by a preview clip on the ‘Sunday Today’ show. Retton thanked fans for support and acknowledged her family’s Spotfund page, which garnered generous contributions for her medical expenses. Known for her historic gymnastics career, including five Olympic medals in 1984, Retton’s recovery showcases the resilience of the human spirit and the impact of support during challenging times.