Woman who couldn’t afford to retire was still waiting tables at 81— until a stranger raised over $300K

At 81, a waitress from Pittsburgh had no plans to retire—not because she didn’t want to, but because she couldn’t afford to. Then, in a twist that restores faith in humanity, a kind-hearted stranger launched a fundraiser on her behalf. She raised over $300,000, and a long-overdue retirement was within reach. The incident happened when Tamie Konzier took a break from her busy day to have lunch with her son Leo at a nearby restaurant called Eat'n Park. 

As Konzier sat at a table, she overheard a conversation at the next table. The waitress, Betty, was explaining that she earned just $910 the previous month. Not even close to enough, so retiring wasn’t an option for her, as reported by TODAY. Konzier quickly turned to TikTok, pulling out her phone to capture their conversation on camera. Konzier told the viewers, “I have $40 in my purse, and that’s what I’m going to leave her for a tip.” Her son, Leo, noted, “She can hardly walk.”

Betty said, “I worked all my life as a waitress, and I can’t retire. I’m 81, but I can still outdo all these whippersnappers.” As Konzier and Leo left, Betty wished, “Take care and enjoy life because it’ll go by you fast!” The internet listened—and answered. Konzier’s video went viral, and strangers from across the world, moved by Betty’s story, sent donations. Konzier set up a GoFundMe campaign for Betty. In a follow-up video, Konzier could be seen beaming with tears of joy. Overwhelmed by the kindness of strangers, she offered a heartfelt thank-you for all the generous donations.

When Betty found out her life had changed forever, she said, “You don’t know what this is going to help me with.” Konzier replied, “I hope it helps you with everything. Bills…maybe you can go on a trip or something.” The waitress said, “You know, my family and I are having financial difficulties, and this could take care of it.” As reported by Upworthy, Konzier added, “I’m so happy for you! You deserve it.” Netizens on social media showered Betty with love and couldn't stop praising Konzier.

On TikTok, a person (@uglyweldsllc), commented, "In less than 2 days, the GoFundMe has reached $193,000. Humanity just banded together and retired this lady." Another individual, @iamtheeggman0, wrote, "As someone who has served in a restaurant for about 10 years, this makes me so sad!! Serving is SUCH a physically draining job!!" Another, @taralundberg, chimed, "Just donated! I’ve been a bartender/server for 32 years, and it’s hard work, and I’m 50! I can’t imagine doing this much longer, let alone til 81! I 🙏🏻 She’ll get to retire after these donations!"