In her first interview since her hospitalization in October 2023, former Olympic gymnast Mary Lou Retton shares her harrowing journey with a rare form of pneumonia. The exclusive interview with Hoda Kotb will air on TODAY Monday, Jan. 8, revealing Retton's vulnerability and resilience in the face of a life-threatening illness.

At home in Boerne, Texas, where she is currently recuperating, the 55-year-old sits down with Kotb alongside her eldest daughter, Shayla Schrepfer. Retton, donning a portable oxygen apparatus, speaks candidly about her private nature and the significance of sharing her story. Previously accustomed to interviews about her Olympic victories, she now finds herself discussing a deeply personal battle for survival.

Retton reveals the severity of her illness, admitting that she was on the brink of being put on life support. Grateful to be alive, the five-time Olympic medalist acknowledges the gravity of her situation, stating, "This is serious, and this is life, and I'm so grateful to be here." Her daughters detail the desperate moments when Retton's oxygen levels plummeted, forcing them to confront the possibility of placing her on a ventilator.

The revelation of Retton's diagnosis came from her daughters on Oct. 10, through a crowd-funding site seeking support and assistance with medical costs. A rare form of pneumonia had left the gymnastics legend fighting for her life. Over the next few weeks, Schrepfer shared updates on her mother's progress, keeping fans informed about the challenging journey to recovery.

Despite setbacks, including a frightening regression in her condition, Retton's path to recovery gradually unfolded. By Oct. 18, she had made significant progress, leading to her discharge from the ICU and eventual return home. However, Schrepfer emphasized that the road to recovery would be long and arduous.

Retton's first public statement on Oct. 30 expressed gratitude for the support she received and her determination to stay positive during the slow healing process. Just a month later, on Thanksgiving Day, she took to social media to express overwhelming appreciation for the preciousness of life and the resilience of the human spirit.

Mary Lou Retton's interview with Hoda Kotb promises to provide further insight into her challenging battle with pneumonia and the immense gratitude she now carries within her heart. This remarkable athlete's strength and resilience serve as an inspiration to others facing life's most daunting challenges.