At 84, I'm Working Late Nights from My Wheelchair, and I Plan to Continue Until I Turn 100

Jane Way, residing in a Phoenix suburb, devotes 30 hours a week to her accounting role for a South African orphanage from her home. Despite financial constraints and health challenges, she remains committed to working, believing she would continue to do so even if circumstances were different.

Beginning in my childhood, I assisted in my family's restaurant business at the age of seven. I pursued a degree in accounting and became the first female from Cal Poly to recruit for CPA firms. This led to a role at a prestigious firm where I became certified after two years.

For 46 years, I dedicated myself to the CPA profession, navigating various roles in franchising and retail sectors, establishing myself as a significant contributor in finance and accounting.

My husband, also an accountant, launched an import business following a severe heart attack in 1972. After his passing in 1987, I remained single. At the time, I was leading financial operations for a global franchisor of rental and party goods companies.

Post-loss: Career Adaptations and New Beginnings

Unprepared for the demands of a high-level CFO role, I transitioned to contract work across various sectors. My recent focus is on nonprofit work, aiding an Arizona charity linked with a South African orphanage.

Deeply involved in church activities, I serve on the mission committee and became connected to this charity as part of our outreach efforts.

The Night Owl Routine: Adapting to Time Zones

Adjusting to time zone differences, my workday aligns with 11 p.m. to 8 a.m. local time, matching the end-of-day in South Africa. My tasks include preparing financial analyses and reports, working about 30 hours weekly by taking brief naps to manage workload and rest.

I find fulfillment in working, as it provides a sense of purpose by contributing positively to others. Financial needs are part of the equation, but work itself gives me satisfaction.

Retirement Attempts and Financial Realities

Though I've attempted retirement twice—the first briefly in 1990 and later from 2004 to 2011—it failed to suit me. I helped fund my grandchildren's education, depleting my savings, which led to reliance on Social Security and nonprofit earnings.

During my 80th birthday, I disclosed a 20-year plan. Almost five years have passed, and while circumstances have fluctuated, my intention is to keep working and celebrating each milestone.

Family, Faith, and Health Challenges

In my personal hierarchy, faith and family precede work and writing. My close-knit family includes a son and three grandchildren. Despite physical limitations and past health issues, including COVID-19, I remain committed to staying involved in their lives.

Living with my son, who is disabled after a stroke, and a grandson following his marriage breakdown, we function cohesively, managing expenses and household tasks together.

Looking Forward

My work with the nonprofit is rewarding, and I aim to sustain this engagement. It's also crucial to find a profession that doesn’t feel like work, to volunteer, and to contribute positively where possible.

Reflecting, I wish I had invested more in friendships. Though I built connections through church and work, true companionship is different.

Ultimately, authenticity and pursuing what brings joy are essential. Life involves choices and consequences—understanding that hardship is a part of growth.