![This is how Mary Lou Retton feels after a life-threatening illness](https://content5.promiflash.de/article-images/video_480/mary-lou-retton-lacht-3.jpg)
Mary Lou Retton (55) caused great concern for her fans in the fall of 2023! The former American athlete was in hospital for some time in October: after the ex-gymnast fell ill with a rare form of pneumonia, her life was in danger for days. After she was released from the clinic, things became quiet for the Olympic star. But now there is Mary her first interview after the difficult time.
The former athlete is now speaking to the presenter on the US TV show “Today”. Hoda Kotb – for Mary It is the first public interview after her illness. The 55-year-old is dependent on an oxygen device during the conversation. “This is serious, this is life and I am so grateful that I am still here,” emphasized Mary and adds: “Because there was a time when they considered life support measures.”
Talking about such a serious and, above all, private topic in public is now a no-no Mary visibly difficult. “Usually my interviews are about, ‘Oh yeah, it feels great to win the Olympics!’ Do you know?” she explains.
![Mary Lou Retton in August 1984](https://content2.promiflash.de/article-images/video_480/mary-lou-retton-turnt.jpg)
![Mary Lou Retton in September 2018 in New York City](https://content5.promiflash.de/article-images/video_480/mary-lou-retton-posiert-2.jpg)
![Mary Lou Retton, former gymnast](https://content1.promiflash.de/article-images/video_480/mary-lou-retton-laechelt.jpg)