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Getting By In Retirement Kansas City residents share their thoughts on life after work

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1 minute read

Patricia Corry, 79

“Whatever is coming down the pike, is coming down the pike”

Originally from Canada, Patricia lived in Texas before moving to Kansas City. A self-described “fatalist and eternal optimist,” Patricia tries to take retirement day by day. She spends part of her time working for Reconciliation Services.

Hear Patricia’s story:


Mable Fuller, 89

“You are going to find it everywhere you go”

Mable moved to Kansas City in 1959 when the city was still heavily segregated. Dealing with prejudice has always been part of her struggle to get by. When not singing in her church choir, Mable volunteers as a foster grandparent for underprivileged children.

Hear Mable’s story:


Pam Tannen, 69

“From million dollar deposits to bagging groceries”

Pam moved to Kansas City in 1978 and currently lives in Brookside. She says it is important for her to give back in her retirement, so she spends part of her time volunteering in the Shepherd Center’s Meals On Wheels program. Pam works part time in a local grocery store in Brookside and loves being part of the community.

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Sheron Davis, 66

“Enjoy life before you leave life”

Sheron has lived in the greater Kansas City her whole life, and currently lives in Raytown. A former bartender that relied on cash to raise her two children, Sheron had to find work in retirement to make it financially. She currently works for the AARP.

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Deborah Ochoa, 61

“The struggles are pretty much the same”

Deborah has lived in Kansas City her entire life. A nurse for 25 years, Deborah has found that retirement was more difficult than she had anticipated. She is passionate to help those over 55 find employment and fight age discrimination.

Hear Deborah’s story:

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