TikToker named Jenelle Marie ran into the veteran identified as Donald at US Gold and Pawn in Manchester and he told her his story, New York Post reported.
Donald shared with Marie the challenges he faced while caring for his ailing wife, which led to him falling behind on rent payments after his landlord increased the amount. “He’s deathly afraid he’s going to be displaced and that they are going to make his wife go to a home,” Marie explained.
She later posted a video prior to the fundraiser taking off, in which she handed Donald an envelope with the $1,200 she’d raised that point.
Overwhelmed with emotion, Donald expressed his gratitude, saying, “I could kiss you. Oh my goodness.” Despite his initial reluctance to accept the money, Marie insisted, acknowledging his struggles and appreciating his military service.
Thanks to the $1,200, Donald was able to keep his jewelry and settle his debt with his landlord, even having $80 left over.
“You’re an angel in disguise, you really are,” he told Marie.
“I don’t know what to say, I really don’t know what to say.” Donald, who turns 91 on August 25, added, “This is the best birthday present anyone has every had.”
In addition to the financial support, Marie is also assisting the couple in finding more stable housing, as per New York Post.
