Strangers around the world have donated over $1.5 million to help an 88-year-old veteran retire from a job at a Michigan supermarket.
Ed Bambas, 88, caught the attention of Australian social media influencer Sam Weidenhofer after a stranger shared his story in the comments section of one of Weidenhofer's videos.
Bambas told ABC Detroit station WXYZ that he had to return to work nearly a decade ago after his wife died following a long illness, and his former employer eliminated his pension.
"Once my wife died, I didn't have enough income to pay for [my home] or all the other bills I had accumulated because of my wife's illness," Bambas said.
Bambas said he first went to work for a hardware store and then moved to a cashier position at a Meijer grocery store, where he currently works.
In a TikTok video that has since gone viral, Bambas can be seen working his shift when Weidenhofer approaches, introduces himself, asks Bambas about his story and then surprises him with a $400 tip.
"I'd like to share your story and you know, get people to help you retire," Weidenhofer tells Bambas in the video, which has racked up more than 7 million views since it was posted on Tuesday.
"Well, thank you," an emotional Bambas says in the video as he breaks into tears.
Bambas also tells Weidenhofer that he works 40 hours per week and has a dream to, "Live a little, somewhat, of the life [he] was hoping for."
Weidenhofer told WXYZ that Bambas' story inspired him to not only fly over 9,000 miles from Australia to meet with him, but to also set up an online fundraiser to help him retire.
The fundraiser has already accrued more than $1.5 million and is expected to help Bambas pay off debts and retire a second time.
Weidenhofer told WXYZ, "No 88-year-old in America should have to work because they need to, and that breaks my heart."
"I just wanted to give him a chance to retire," he added. "You know, at least have some comfort."
