Canadian says $50-million lottery win means his wife can finally retire
One recent Canadian lottery winner has big plans for his newfound fortune, but his first priority is to help his wife finally retire.
Shaun Ryan is a retiree who lives in the town of Dalhousie, N.B. One day, he stopped at a Circle K to try his luck in the lottery at a time when there was a $50-million Lotto Max prize up for grabs. When he first heard that the winning ticket had been sold in Restigouche County, he said he “resisted the urge” to check his ticket, fearing disappointment.
“My wife asked if we had a ticket and then my son texted me and asked if we bought one,” Shaun recalled. “My wife asked if I was going to go check it and I said, ‘No, not yet. I want to keep the dream alive.'”
But anxiety turned to shock when he finally checked the ticket at home: he had won the jackpot in the Friday, Nov. 6 Lotto Max draw. To his shock, his dream finally came true, and he was now $50 million richer.
“Boom, boom, boom,” he shared. “My heart was racing.”
It’s been a whirlwind for the couple.
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Within days, Shaun and his wife, Colette, were claiming their winnings. For Shaun, the financial freedom means that Colette, a teacher, can finally retire and enjoy travelling. Shaun, on the other hand, said he plans to stay home with the family dogs.
He also wants to ensure his seven children and grandchildren are financially set, and he plans to give back to his community.
“There’s a responsibility I feel toward the community and organizations that I want to be of
service to and help them out in certain ways,” Shaun said. “Fifty million dollars is a heavy load, and there’s a lot to think of because there’s a lot that could be done for the community.”
The winning ticket was sold at the Circle K in Dalhousie, N.B., and the retailer will receive a one per cent seller’s prize worth $500,000.
“It’s just unreal,” said Shaun. “It’s a little overwhelming, but I’m happy to have the chance to feel it.”
All forms of gambling, including the lottery, involve risk and outcomes are based on chance. Individuals are strongly advised to gamble responsibly. If you are experiencing any signs of gambling-related issues, check out these resources.