I'm about to be 32, and I only started really studying programming (via online tutorials and physical how-to books) a little over a year & 1/2 ago. I was already solid in my html and css, picked up ruby first, then jumped to a bit of php, then back to ruby and rails, and finally some jquery and responsive design. I did this over a year, and was supported by my loving fiance (also unemployment comp and a part-time job after that), which was a tough financial struggle for that yea . I came from the construction sector (repair services) for 8 years. My fiance works for a successful startup, who were gracious enough to allow me to spend my studying time in their offices (and occasionally ask questions).
4 months ago, I was contacted by a recruiter via an online job site for a jr. rails dev position, in which I now am gainfully employed. I'm working with rails, and being utilized for my knowledge in responsive design with our overhaul project. I'm now able to help save for our wedding and honeymoon and provide groceries of more than soup.