US Air Force veteran pawns jewellery for sick wife dementia care, gets surprise from TikToker

In a heartwarming display of kindness and generosity, a TikToker has raised over $320,000 (approx Rs 2.68 crore) for a 90-year-old air force veteran struggling to take care of his wife who is battling dementia. The veteran, identified as Donald, was filmed at a pawn shop in Manchester, New Hampshire, in the US, where he was trying to sell his cherished jewellery to cover his wife’s escalating medical bills.

The video, which went viral, showed Donald’s desperation and the sacrifices he was making to ensure his wife received the care she needed. Moved by his story, TikTok user, Jenelle Marie, decided to help the air force veteran, The New York Post reported.

She created a GoFundMe page to raise money for Donald and his wife, hoping to alleviate some of the financial burden they were facing. The campaign quickly gained momentum, with thousands of people donating to support the couple. The GoFundMe page hit a staggering $320,000.

Jenelle Marie met Donald at the pawn shop, where she learned about the couple’s struggles. They had no children and no immediate family to rely on, making their situation even more dire. Donald’s landlord had recently raised the rent, adding to their financial woes.

Moved by their story, Jenelle Marie initially gave Donald an envelope containing $1,200 (around Rs 1 lakh) she had raised. Donald was initially hesitant to accept the money but was overcome with gratitude when he finally did.

On seeing the envelope full of cash, an emotional Donald said, “I could kiss you. Oh my goodness.”

Jenelle Marie responded, saying, “I know you’re struggling. I know you’re trying to take care of your wife. I appreciate your (military) service.”

The outpouring of support was not limited to financial donations as many people were inspired by Donald’s love and dedication to his wife, and the kindness shown by Jenelle Marie.

Donald retained the jewellery after receiving $1,200 from Jenelle Marie and paid off a debt of $80 (Rs 6,716) to his landlord, according to The New York Post.

Praising Jenelle Marie for her kind gesture, the nonagenarian said, “You’re an angel in disguise. You really are. I don’t know what to say, I really don’t know what to say.”

“This is the best birthday present anyone has ever had,” revealed Donald, who will turn 91 on August 25.

The viral video not only raised funds but also brought attention to the struggles faced by many elderly couples who are forced to make difficult choices to care for their loved ones.