In October 2023, Mary Lou Retton, an Olympic gymnast, faced a life-threatening situation. During a nail appointment, she felt extremely tired and breathless.
The following day, Mary Lou was found on her bedroom floor, struggling to breathe. A neighbor noticed something unusual and found her. This quick action saved Mary Lou’s life.
Doctors diagnosed her with pneumonia and doubted her survival. Her daughters, Shayla and McKenna, prayed by her bedside, preparing for the worst. Miraculously, high-flow oxygen therapy led to her recovery.
Amidst this, Mary Lou faced another challenge: she had no health insurance. Financial burdens from surgeries and personal issues had made insurance unaffordable. Her daughters sought help through social media and GoFundMe, calling for support and prayers.
The response was heartwarming. As help poured in, Mary Lou’s health improved. She left the hospital, grateful to be alive for the holidays. She relied on an oxygen tank but was happy to be with her family.
Mary Lou’s experience has filled her with gratitude and a renewed zest for life. She reflects, “I just thought I was a washed-up, old athlete. But the love, it just… it touched me.”
Mary Lou Retton’s miraculous recovery teaches us that, even in life’s most challenging moments, God’s grace is always with us.
“He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings, you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.” Psalm 91:4