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Mary Wittinger had a plan. This single mother of three children - now all adults - expected to work until age 65 and then enjoy a relaxed lifestyle in her retirement. But that's not how it happened. Mary was forced into early retirement after suffering a severe on-the-job injury.

"I was taught that you had a set plan for retirement. I never expected to have to change my focus so drastically. All of a sudden my life was turned upside down," Mary explained.

Physical and occupational therapy at home took care of her basic recovery needs but did nothing for her emotional or mental health. While her physical recuperation was on track, her mental state was rapidly declining. "So many of our society's expectations about retiring are focused on reaching those 'golden years' and then really enjoying life," Mary said. "That's how I thought it would happen for me." She ultimately plunged into a deep depression.

The depression took hold almost immediately after her injury and continued to grow throughout her physical rehabilitation. She no longer felt like a productive member of society. It was during this time that she became aware of United Way of King County grantee Senior Services.

Mary obtained assistance from Senior Services that addressed a wide variety of her needs, from healthy activities to a support group for her depression. The camaraderie she is able to build with other seniors has helped get her life back on track. "I'm actively engaged in life again," Mary said.

Mary looks at this time in her life as a re-birth and is grateful for her new lease on life. "United Way of King County and the organizations they support truly are a community safety net," Mary said. Without these organizations, Mary feels she could have remained in the clutches of a deep depression and an isolated life.

As healthcare improves and life spans lengthen, communities face the ever-increasing challenge of ensuring that our seniors continue to feel like productive members of society. United Way of King County recognizes the value of our seniors and are focused on keeping them vital, active and healthy.

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