80-year-old works in the supermarket: A promise until the end!

80-year-old works in the supermarket: A promise until the end!

Imagine you are 80 years old and working harder than ever before. That's what happens to Gary Saling, a spry retiree from St. George, Utah. Gary works at a supermarket to pay off his late wife Carol's large medical bills. He doesn't do this because he wants to work, but because of a deep promise he made to his wife.

Carol suffered from two forms of dementia, one of which was progressive supranuclear palsy, which severely limited her in the final years of her life. Gary cared for her lovingly and made her promise never to put her in a nursing home. In order to cover the horrendous treatment costs, the two gradually sold everything they owned. Ultimately, they left behind debts of $87,000, which is approximately 70,200 euros.

The difficult legacy of nursing

After Carol's death in 2020, Gary struggled not only with grief, but also with enormous financial difficulties. His social security support had also been withdrawn because it was tied to Carol. To pay the bills, Gary took a job at the grocery store, where he typically works four days a week. “So I have a little less time to think about all of this,” explains the 80-year-old.

The work is good for him, even if he has health problems that he suffers from. His feet have been affected by infections and have required several surgeries, making it much more difficult for him to work. But Gary doesn't give up; He helps customers with their shopping and still brings a lot of joy into his everyday life.

Community help

When Gary's story broke, Duana Johnson stepped in and started the GoFundMe page to raise money. So far, almost $40,000 (approx. €35,000) has been raised, with the hope that this money will be enough to send Gary into retirement and provide him with much-needed financial support. Johnson describes Gary as a "wonderful man" who has always fulfilled his vows and resists a title like "saint."

The donations raised could not only help ease Gary's financial burden, but also free up more time for his own health. In Germany there are government programs that support caring relatives, for example by making everyday life easier or providing targeted advice for seniors. Things are different in the USA, which further increases the challenges for people like Gary.

Gary Saling exemplifies not only the immense burden of caring for a loved one, but also the ceaseless struggle for financial security as we age. The road to retirement was full of hurdles for him, and his fate encourages us to think more about the support options for older people and family caregivers. Every bit of help counts – both for Gary and for many others in similar situations.

For more information about Gary and how you can help him, visit the GoFundMe page or learn more about the Financial Assistance for Seniors program that may benefit you or your loved ones.

Gary's story impressively shows how strong the connection between love and responsibility can be and the challenges that age brings with it.

Further details about Gary's situation and his path can also be found on TAG24.

Stay strongly connected to one another, because community often contains the greatest strength.