After 42 years of loyalty, hard work, and commuting for a minimum-wage job, John—a man in his 70s—was given a send-off that left his coworkers heartbroken.
His employer’s grand gesture? A retirement barbecue and a certificate. No bonus. No real thank-you. Just a meal and a piece of paper.
Sonia, one of his coworkers, couldn’t stand to see him walk away with so little after decades of dedication. So, she took action.
— Censored Men (@CensoredMen) October 2, 2023
A Viral Outcry
Sonia, known as @m3nta11y1ll1 on TikTok, shared John’s story, posting a video of his final day on the job. The footage showed the elderly man working in a warehouse, with an on-screen message explaining his situation:
“Today is my coworker’s last day. He worked for this company for 42 years making minimum wage. The company only threw him a barbecue and gave him a certificate.”
She continued:
“He takes the bus and Bart (train) to get here every day on time. He’s 70+. He loves working here so much he didn’t want to retire. No bonus, just a barbecue and a certificate. Don’t be a slave to your job. Thank you, John, for your loyalty.”
The video struck a chord. People were outraged. Comments poured in from users shocked at how little recognition John received. Many wanted to help.
The Internet Steps Up
Sonia started posting updates about John, and the response was overwhelming. On October 2, she launched a GoFundMe for him, explaining that John had never let bad weather or exhaustion keep him from work.
She described him as “one of the most talented and hardworking” employees at the company, calling him “extremely dependable.” Even when his coworkers encouraged him to take vacation days, he refused—he simply loved working.
“Can we give John a little something more for his retirement?” she asked.
She revealed that John had no wife or kids but had a nephew he adored. She hoped people could send positive messages or donations to make his retirement feel special.
And people did.
$36,000 and Counting
As of now, the GoFundMe has raised an astonishing $36,504. Strangers from around the world have left touching messages for John, thanking him for his work ethic and dedication.
“John, your dedication is humbling. Wishing you a well-deserved retirement,” one person wrote.
Another commented, “John, you are an inspiration! I hope my son grows up with the same loyalty, dedication, and kindness you’ve shown all these years.”
A third added, “We need more people like you in the world, John. Enjoy your retirement—you deserve it.”
A Proper Goodbye
On October 4 (2023), Sonia posted an update. She shared a screenshot of the fundraiser and told her followers that John would soon be coming over to collect his surprise gift.
@producer_sheen Replying to @ophelia 🦋 ♬ Steven Universe – L.Dre
While his employer may not have shown appreciation, the internet did. Thanks to Sonia and thousands of strangers, John is finally getting the recognition—and the retirement—he truly deserves.
Would you step up for a coworker like Sonia did? Share this story and spread the kindness!
