Family of Mary Lou Retton shares 'uplifting news' on Olympic hero's health

The daughter of Mary Lou Retton shared an encouraging update on the Olympic icon's health Saturday via Instagram. 

"Mom's progress is truly remarkable," McKenna Kelley wrote. "Prayers have been felt and are being answered." 

On Tuesday, Kelley revealed that the 55-year-old former gold medal-winning gymnast had been battling a rare form of pneumonia. Without disclosing details, she said Retton had been in an intensive care unit for over a week and could not breathe independently. 

According to the most recent update on Retton, she remains in the ICU, but her breathing is "becoming stronger" and she's responding positively to treatments. 

Retton rose to prominence after a standout performance during the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Not only did she medal five times, more than any other competitor that year, but she also became the first American in history to win individual all-around gold. 

Her success made her something of a pop-culture idol and even nearly 40 years after her historic achievements, fans have not forgotten. Earlier in the week, Shayla Schrepfer, another of Retton's four daughters, said the family was "overwhelmed" by the support they've received from strangers. 

"We didn't even realize that there are so many people out there that love her just as much as we do," Schrepfer said. "It's been a really hard time for our family, and so, just seeing that people love her like that and showing support has just meant the world to us and to her."

The family created a Spotfund fundraiser for Retton, who does not have health insurance. Initially, the goal was to raise $50,000, but it's brought in over $420,000 as of Saturday afternoon.