An 80-year-old Marine veteran from Vietnam drives full-time for Lyft to cover mounting medical bills for himself and his wife. Richard Hoppin, who battles multiple sclerosis and Crohn’s disease, uses the couple’s sole vehicle to transport passengers five days a week across Arizona and into California, earning a few hundred dollars daily.

Health Struggles and Financial Pressures

Richard’s wife, Catherine, fights lung cancer and recently completed radiation treatments costing $50,000 for three sessions. While insurance covered part of the expenses, the couple still faces ongoing payments. “That extra money he makes really keeps us where we are,” Catherine states from their Sun City home. “Otherwise, we’d probably be homeless. I don’t know.”

The couple also mourns the loss of their only son to cancer years ago, leaving them without family support amid declining health and rising costs for care, food, and utilities.

Daily Lyft Routine Keeps Him Active

Hoppin handles six to eight rides per day, ranging from short trips to long hauls. He embraces the work as a fulfilling retirement pursuit. “After I retired, sitting at home isn’t the thing,” he explains. “If you want to die, just sit at home. I thought I’d do something constructive and help people. They need a ride, so I give them a ride.”

He plans to continue driving for another five years, provided his health holds steady, enjoying the chance to stay busy and connect with others.

Community Steps Up with Fundraiser

Neighbor and friend Michael Long launched an online fundraiser to ease their burden. “It breaks my heart to see him drive to make ends meet,” Long shares. The effort highlights their isolation and overwhelming expenses, appealing for community kindness.

Over 400 donors have contributed nearly $28,000 as of Tuesday evening. Long adds, “I just hope the goodness of people will come forward and donate something to make their lives a little more comfortable. That’s all I can ask for.”