Olympic gold medal gymnast Mary Lou Retton has shared her first statement since being hospitalized with a rare pneumonia.

Retton shared via Instagram, “I’m beyond blessed to have the opportunity to make this statement. I am overwhelmed with all the love and support from the world as I fight. I am forever grateful to you all!”

She continued, “I’m with family continuing to slowly recover and staying very positive as I know this recovery is a long and slow process. I appreciate everyone’s respect of my privacy at this time.”

Retton concluded, “When the time is right, I will be sharing more information about my health issues and hope I can help others who may face the same battle as me. I love you all.”

Have you or someone you know ever been hospitalized with pneumonia?