Comment by sterlind

I can't think of many people who've learned to program to fix a bug that's bothering them. and learning to program in your free time is much easier than switching careers, getting a PhD and securing funding for your lab.

nevertheless, I know a number of people with my genetic disorder (Ehlers-Danlos syndrome) who have become researchers, doctors and PTs because of it. but that's a genetic disorder, so it hits you early enough in life to sway your choice of major.

also, while I get what you're saying about having "little useful productivity left," it comes across as a bit insensitive.