An 85-year-old movie theater worker in Tennessee was taken by surprise when a group of kind-hearted individuals joined together to gift him $146,000 to enhance his retirement experience.
Mary Ellen Elon was spotted maneuvering heavy trash bags and a cleaning cart while working her shift at a cinema in Maryville, Tennessee. A video capturing this moment has garnered over 13 million views online.
The video was shared by Brooklyn Green, a customer at the theater, who wrote: “Let’s secretly help this beautiful woman retire. No one deserves to work at this age.” Green initiated a fundraiser after being moved by Mary’s hard work, despite being a complete stranger to her.
“I didn’t know anything about her. I didn’t even know her name when I went to the theater,” Green stated. “I just saw how hard she worked and felt inspired—like, I’d love to be that dedicated someday.”
“She didn’t look too comfortable, especially considering how hard she was working,” Green added.
With a goal of $200,000 set, the fundraiser managed to collect $146,317 before Green decided to pause the donations. More than 7,500 supporters contributed to the cause.
On Wednesday, Green shared the moment she revealed the total amount to Elon on the crowdfunding page, which also supports the local church and the homeless.
“Oh my god. That’s a lot of money,” Elon expressed, recognizing the sum written on the document.
“That’s a lot of money, and you’re entitled to it all,” Green replied, handing the donation over.
The video captured a heartfelt hug between the two.
The clip also included a message from Elon directed at the donors.
“I’m so grateful to all the wonderful people who donated money to GoFundMe,” she expressed. “I feel overwhelmed and truly blessed by the Lord and by all the amazing people. Thank you so much once again.”
The theater manager mentioned that the decision to retire would ultimately be up to Elon.
