Canadian dad using huge lottery win to pay for daughter's tuition
An Ontario dad is putting his daughter’s education first after winning a massive lottery prize.
Hamilton resident Rodger Carswell was emotional after winning a $1-million Maxmillions prize in the Aug. 8, 2025, Lotto Max draw.
The husband and father said he has been playing with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) consistently for about 20 years. That consistency finally paid off.
OLG
He was on his way home from a round of golf with his son when he stopped at the store to check his lottery ticket.
“It said, ‘Big Winner,’ and it was shocking to say the least,” he shared while at the OLG Prize Centre in Toronto to pick up his windfall. “When I had my ticket validated, the clerk said my face went pale.”
The 52-year-old returned to the car where his son was waiting.
“I didn’t say anything, but he could tell I’d won. I got in the car and that’s when the waterworks started,” recalled Carswell.
The dad plans to put his lottery winnings towards his daughter’s tuition.
“Everything is golden,” he concluded with a smile.
Carswell purchased his lucky lottery ticket at Jug City on Upper Gage Avenue in Hamilton.
He isn’t the only Canadian who has used a prize to make a hefty payment.
A teacher from Welland, Ont., used her $1-million lottery prize to finally pay off her mortgage.
“I feel very fortunate,” she stated. “Being a winner takes your breath away.”
Another pair of lottery winners plans to use their huge prize to build their dream home for retirement.
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.