On social media, many viewers were stunned after a viral video showed an 81-year-old waitress in tears, admitting she was too poor to retire despite a lifetime of hard work.
An elderly waitress struggles to make ends meet
Betty, an 81-year-old waitress, still works at an Eat’N Park diner in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She can barely walk but continues working because she cannot afford to retire.
A mother named Tamie Konzier and her young son overheard Betty discussing her financial struggles with another customer.
On the TikTok platform, a user named @tamie.lynn shared a video showing that Social Security is not enough to cover her expenses as a waitress.
In the footage, Betty shared that she receives only $910 a month from Social Security. However, her expenses exceed this amount, forcing her to keep working despite her age.
‘The table next to us asked why she was still working and she told them she only makes $910 a month on social security and she has to still work because her bills exceed $910’, Konzier said.
Konzier was touched by Betty’s story and tipped her $40. This prompted Betty to open up further about her situation.
Betty remains optimistic despite hardships
Betty has worked as a waitress her entire life. She told Konzier, “I mean, I’ve worked all my life as a waitress and I still can’t retire.”
Konzier was shocked to learn Betty’s age and complimented her. Betty responded with a smile, saying, ‘Thank you, I’m 81 and I can still out do these whippersnappers,’ Betty joked.
‘Take care and enjoy your day, enjoy it because it will go by you fast.’
Social media reaction
Konzier’s video quickly went viral and sparked discussion among viewers.
In the comment selection, many viewers breaks down in ter with Betty’s hardships, while another also
One person said: You’re better off working, too many people die soon after retirement.
A second wrote: This was such a selfless act…So glad to see there are kind people out there…You have an amazing heart and such a wonderful soul….Happy retirement Betty!…
While a third commented: this is utterly unjust, she need to go home and relax. Her retirement salary should be paid annually
Another added: May she be able to fully retire and never have to lift a finger for anyone else again.
Someone else said: I know it by experience. So sad.
A viral video leads to an outpouring of support
Konzier shared Betty’s story in a TikTok video, hoping to raise money for her. The video quickly went viral, gaining 4.4 million views.
Konzier’s young son was especially hopeful, saying he had prayed for the video to reach a large audience.
Konzier launched a GoFundMe campaign to help Betty. Donations poured in, with more than 6,500 people contributing. The highest single donation was $1,000.
In addition, Konzier pledged to donate all earnings from her TikTok creator fund to Betty. The response overwhelmed her, bringing her to tears in a follow-up video.
Konzier contacted Betty’s manager to arrange a surprise presentation of the funds. Many of Betty’s coworkers also reached out, describing her as hardworking and kind.
A worker at the diner called the response to the video “insane.” Management has directed further inquiries to their corporate office.
Betty’s story has touched thousands, proving the power of community support in times of need.
@tamie.lynn Hoping we can help this sweet lady retire! I think Jen Hamilton could help me do it but I can’t tag her! #viralvideo #fyp #jenhamilton