The gold medal she won in the individual all-around category at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles made former American gymnast Mary Lou Retton famous. She began gymnastics at an early age and relocated to Texas in 1983 to train with famed teachers Bela and Marta Karolyi, who also coached Nadia Comaneci. She was born in Fairmont, West Virginia, in 1968.
Being the first American woman to win the individual all-around competition, her Olympic victory made history and made her a household name. She switched from competitive gymnastics to motivational speaking, television commentary, and philanthropic work after quitting the sport.
Mary Lou Retton is a true American legend who acts as a role model and source of inspiration for many, representing the aspiration to achieve greatness.
Learn the truth behind Mary Lou Retton’s health rumors, her past health issues, such as hip dysplasia and overactive bladder (OAB), and how she manages to lead a healthy and motivating life in spite of them.
Mary Lou Retton Illness
The iconic American gymnast Mary Lou Retton’s health has recently generated a lot of discussions online. It’s crucial to note, however, that Mary Lou Retton is not presently ill as of September 2023. Even though there have been worries and rumors concerning her health, none of them are real.

Mary Lou Retton has previously struggled with her health. Hip dysplasia is a congenital disorder that affects the development of the hip joint and results in discomfort and mobility problems. She was born with this condition. Her years of competing in gymnastics made this issue worse.
She had hip replacement surgery on her left hip in her mid-thirties, followed by another procedure on her right hip in 2015. She also had an overactive bladder (OAB), which is characterized by a strong need to urinate and frequent urination. She sought medical attention, and these problems subsided.
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Mary Lou Retton’s current health is good despite her previous health issues. She is still living an active and motivating life, contributing to society in a number of ways, notably through her advocacy work and her steadfast passion for gymnastics.
One surprised person wrote on Twitter:
I just saw Mary Lou Retton on a Colonial Penn insurance commercial. Photo: Judy Meacham. 🤮 pic.twitter.com/tpzW5LuBlO
— Dr. Jeffrey Guterman (@JeffreyGuterman) September 25, 2023
Did Mary Lou Retton Have a Stroke?
The renowned former American gymnast Mary Lou Retton has dealt with a number of health issues over the course of her life. Hip dysplasia, a congenital illness that hinders the correct development of the hip joint and results in discomfort and mobility issues, is one significant condition she dealt with.
Her years spent competing in gymnastics made these problems worse, necessitating both left and right hip replacement procedures. She works as the spokesman for a nationwide educational campaign that encourages people with OAB to get a correct diagnosis and treatment as part of her dedication to educating others about OAB.
Mary Lou Retton continues to be a beloved icon of American athletics and a source of inspiration for many despite her health issues.
Mary Lou Retton Age
She was born on January 24, 1968, making Mary Lou Retton 55 years old at the moment. Retton, an ex-gymnast from the United States, is most remembered for taking home the gold medal in the individual all-around event at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. At those Games, she also took home two silver and two bronze medals.
Mary Lou Retton Career
Famous American gymnast Mary Lou Retton enjoyed considerable success during her career. The 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles marked the pinnacle of Retton’s career as she became the first American woman to win the all-around gold medal in gymnastics.
Her lively and vivacious performances enthralled audiences everywhere, giving her the moniker “America’s Sweetheart.” Retton also won two silver and two bronze medals in individual competitions at the 1984 Olympics, demonstrating her versatility and prowess in a variety of sports.
Her accomplishments, especially her flawless 10 on the vault, cemented her place in gymnastics history. Retton’s talent was already well-known before the Olympics. She won the McDonald’s American Cup in 1984 and the American Cup in 1983, making a name for herself in the gymnastics community.
Retton stopped competing in gymnastics after the Olympics, although he stayed active in the sport as a pundit, coach, and ambassador. She received honorary enshrinements from the Women’s Sports Foundation Hall of Fame, the United States Olympic Hall of Fame, and the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame.
The career of Mary Lou Retton is evidence of her tremendous talent, tenacity, and steadfast dedication to perfection. Her contributions have had a lasting impression on the gymnastics community, and her influence will be felt for years to come.
Is Mary Lou Retton Married?
Mary Lou Retton is not currently married. From 1990 through 2018, she was previously wed to Shannon Kelley. Together, they had four daughters. According to Retton, her life as a single mother and grandmother is fulfilling. Her priorities are her family and her job.
She also works as a television analyst and motivational speaker. Retton is an encouragement to individuals who are working toward their objectives and a role model for many people. She truly represents America.
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