On May 11, a joyful moment was shared on Instagram that had fans of Olympic gold medalist Mary Lou Retton buzzing with excitement—she’s about to become a grandmother for the very first time. The big reveal came through a heartfelt family photo posted by her eldest daughter, Shayla, and it featured Skyla, 24, proudly showing off her baby bump.
In the sweet snapshot, Skyla stands beside her mother, looking radiant in a form-fitting blue outfit that highlights her growing belly. The photo was posted by Shayla, 29, who couldn’t contain her pride as the family celebrated yet another special milestone—the graduation of their youngest sister, Emma, from college. “The most amazing weekend spent honoring my younger sister’s graduation! We are incredibly proud of you, @emmajeankelley, and we can’t wait to watch you succeed as an adult!” Shayla wrote in the caption.
Mary Lou Retton, now 56, is mother to four daughters: Shayla, Skyla, McKenna, 27, and Emma, 21, all of whom she shares with her ex-husband Shannon Kelley. Known for her powerful performances on the gymnastics floor and her trailblazing Olympic achievements in the 1980s, Retton has since become a devoted mother and now, an excited grandmother-to-be.
Adding even more excitement to the year ahead, McKenna is also preparing to walk down the aisle this fall. The Retton-Kelley household certainly has its hands full with not just a new baby on the way, but also wedding bells around the corner. The family is clearly in celebration mode, marking one joyful event after another.
This pregnancy announcement comes after a challenging period for the family. Just months earlier, in October, Mary Lou Retton had a serious health scare that put everything into perspective. She spent several weeks in the intensive care unit of a hospital in Houston, Texas, fighting a rare form of pneumonia. Her condition was severe, and the situation was first made public by her daughter McKenna, who shared an emotional message on the Spotfund website, asking for prayers and support. “My amazing mom, Mary Lou, has a very rare form of pneumonia and is fighting for her life,” she wrote, adding that Retton was not able to breathe on her own at that time.
The news shook fans and supporters across the country who had followed Retton’s inspiring journey from Olympic champion to beloved public figure. During her time in the hospital, there was an outpouring of support on social media, with fans, fellow athletes, and friends all sending love and encouragement. The family’s openness about her condition drew compassion and concern from thousands.
Thankfully, by the end of October, Retton was discharged and able to return home to recover. Shayla expressed the family’s overwhelming gratitude in a heartfelt post on Instagram, thanking everyone who had supported them through such a terrifying time. “We are so grateful for everyone’s love and support,” she wrote. “Being grateful only scratches the surface of our hearts’ posture.” Her message captured the relief and appreciation that comes with seeing a loved one recover from a life-threatening illness.
By the time Christmas rolled around, Retton was well enough to spend the holidays with her daughters. She marked the occasion with a charming mirror selfie that featured all four girls smiling and wearing festive headbands decorated with Christmas lights. Her caption simply read “Merry Christmas,” but the moment spoke volumes—she was alive, surrounded by family, and soaking in every second.
Now, just a few months later, the family has even more to look forward to. The upcoming birth of Skyla’s baby will usher in a new chapter for the Retton family. For Mary Lou, who once stood proudly atop an Olympic podium, becoming a grandmother might just be one of her most rewarding roles yet. Her journey from elite athlete to loving mom and now grandmother shows the beauty of life’s different seasons.
This touching family moment not only celebrates the upcoming arrival of a new baby but also honors the strength and resilience that brought the Rettons through a difficult year. It’s a reminder of what truly matters—health, family, and love. Congratulations to Skyla, Mary Lou Retton, and the entire family as they prepare to welcome their newest little team member into the world.