Mary Lou Retton Shares Holiday Photo of Four Daughters Amid Recovery Following Health Scare

The Olympic champion was hospitalized in October, following a battle with pneumonia.

Former Olympic gymnast Mary Lou Retton radiated holiday cheer as she marked the festive season with her four daughters -- Emma Jean Kelley, Skyla Kelley, Shayla Schrepfer, and McKenna Kelley. 

Sharing a heartwarming photo on Tuesday, Dec. 26, the 55-year-old legendary athlete captured the spirit of Christmas as her daughters donned matching festive hats. The accompanying caption simply read, "Merry Christmas 🎄🎁."

This joyous celebration comes after Retton's recent health scare, which saw her hospitalized due to a severe battle with pneumonia earlier this fall. Her daughter McKenna diligently kept fans updated on her mother's condition while she was in the intensive care unit, revealing that at one point, Retton was "fighting for her life." 

The family faced financial challenges, as it was reported that Retton did not have health insurance, prompting her children to launch a crowdfunding page for her medical expenses.

Retton's daughters set up a Spot Fund account to help with the cost of hospital bills. It had a $50,000 goal and has surpassed $450,000. In October, it was announced that the Dancing With the Stars alum had returned home and was on the road to recovery.

David Madison/Getty Images

Expressing her gratitude on social media post-recovery, Retton stated, "As we gather to celebrate this Thanksgiving, my heart is overflowing with profound gratitude. I want to express how truly blessed and thankful I am to be slowly improving and to be home with my girls, especially after my time in the hospital."

Acknowledging the unwavering support of her daughters, Retton emphasized the importance of family bonds during challenging times. She extended her thanks to the broader community, saying, "Your love has been a beacon of hope in my life," and expressing gratitude to her "Foxy family" for their friendship and constant support.

Retton shot to superstardom during the 1984 Summer Olympics, when she became the first American female to win gold in the individual all-around competition. 

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