In a recent statement shared on Instagram, Olympic gold medalist Mary Lou Retton broke her silence about her hospitalization due to a rare form of pneumonia. Retton expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming love and support she has received from her fans and the world during her challenging battle.

Retton, who had been fighting for her life in the hospital, conveyed her immense appreciation for the opportunity to share her thoughts, saying, "I am beyond blessed to have the opportunity to make this statement."

While still on the road to recovery, Retton remains positive and stated that her journey back to full health will be a long and slow process. She thanked her family for their support and emphasized the importance of staying positive during this challenging time.

The decorated gymnast also requested privacy as she continues her recovery, promising to share more information about her health issues when the time is right. Retton expressed hope that her own experiences could be of assistance to others facing similar battles.

One of Retton's daughters revealed that her mother had faced a "scary setback" during her time in intensive care. However, upon her release from the hospital, she has embarked on a path of recovery, taking "baby steps" towards regaining her strength.

Mary Lou Retton rose to fame during the 1984 Summer Games in Los Angeles, where she captured the hearts of the nation with her gold medal-winning performance. At just 16 years old, she became the first American woman to win the Olympic all-around title, securing victory with perfect scores in both the floor exercise and vault.

Throughout her career, Retton amassed a total of five medals, including one gold, two silver, and two bronze. Following her retirement from gymnastics, she transitioned into a motivational speaker, advocating for proper nutrition and regular exercise. She also served on the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports during former President George W. Bush's administration.

As Mary Lou Retton continues her recovery, her fans eagerly await further updates on her health. Her story serves as an inspiration, reminding us all of the importance of perseverance and positivity during challenging times.