Everett Collection | Inset: YouTube

Olympic gold medalist Mary Lou Retton is reportedly fighting for her life in the ICU while battling a rare form of pneumonia. Her daughter, McKenna Kelley, shared the news on her Instagram page with a photo of a SpotFund account that she started for Retton’s medical expenses. “Please help my mom continue to fight,” Kelley said in the post. “Out of respect for her and her privacy, I will not disclose all details. However, I will disclose that she not insured. We ask that if you could help in any way, that 1) you PRAY! and 2) if you could help us with finances for the hospital bill.” The fundraiser said that the 55-year-old former gymnast is unable to breathe on her own due to the pneumonia.

Retton had an impressive gymnastics career, making history as the first American woman to win the all-round gold in the 1984 Olympics. After retiring she was inducted into the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame in 1997 and became the first woman to be selected into the Houston Sports Hall of Fame in 2020.

We know that God answers our prayers and has the power to heal us. When we gather as a group in His name, He is there by our sides. Let’s come together and say a prayer for Mary Lou Retton’s healing:

Dear God,

We know you are a God who has the power to heal us from sickness. We are comforted by the fact that You are always watching over us and willing to help in times of need. We come to You to pray for Mary Lou Retton, who is battling a rare form of pneumonia, unable to breathe on her own in the hospital. Please heal her body and bring her comfort and peace as she continues to battle her sickness. Place Your healing hands on her and remove any sickness from her body. Renew her strength and bless her with Your loving care.

We also pray for Mary Lou’s family right now. Place Your loving arms around them and bring them comfort as they stay by her side in the hospital. Let them know that they can come to You with all of their concerns as they support Mary Lou during this tough time. We thank You in advance for Mary Lou’s healing. In Jesus’ name, we pray, amen.

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