Australian TikTok Star Raises $1.7 Million to Retire 88-Year-Old U.S. Cashier

An 88-year-old American cashier can now retire after a viral online fundraiser, led by an Australian social media influencer, secured him $1.7 million. Ed Bambas, a widower from Michigan, received the life-changing gift on Friday. Sam Weidenhofer, a 22-year-old from Melbourne, presented him with an oversized check after organizing the campaign. “No, no,” a tearful Bambas told reporters. “Thank you. Oh, my God.” Weidenhofer is using his large TikTok following to promote acts of kindness during a visit to the United States. His effort for Bambas attracted thousands of donations from around the world. The funds will allow Bambas, who had continued working at a supermarket, to leave his job comfortably. The campaign demonstrates the powerful impact of online communities mobilizing for a cause.