Canadian healthcare worker's dreams come true with $20M Lotto Max jackpot
An Ontario lottery player has hit the Lotto Max jackpot, winning a staggering $20 million prize.
Stoney Creek resident Anna Pelka has played the lottery with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) for the past seven years. She enjoys playing jackpot games like Lotto Max, Lotto 6/49, Ontario 49, and Lottario.
When reading the stories of lottery winners in the news, Pelka dreamed of what she would do if she hit the jackpot and hoped that others would one day read about her big win.
While picking up some holiday-themed Instant tickets, the healthcare industry employee also bought herself a Lotto Max Quick Pick ticket for the December 20 draw. Little did she know that her dreams of winning big were about to come true.
Pelka recalls stopping for gas on her way home. Before heading to the cash register to pay, she checked her Lotto Max ticket.
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“When I did, a message appeared on the screen advising me to see the retailer,ā Anna recounted while visiting the OLG Prize Centre in Toronto to pick up her windfall.
āShaking like a leaf, feeling hot and suddenly thirsty, I brought my ticket to the store clerk. From that moment on, everything became a bit of a blur. The clerk was so kind and brought me a bottle of water. It was a surreal and crazy moment.ā
She says she went straight home and showered while waiting for her husband to arrive.
“When he got home, I told him what had happened and how much Iād won, but he didnāt believe me,ā she said.
āHe wanted to compare the winning Lotto Max numbers to the ones Iād played on my ticket. We matched each number, shared a hug, and cried happy tears. As we embraced, we talked about what this win means for us and our family.ā
This jackpot means a lot to Pelka, who’s also a parent.
āIāve always hoped for a win like this, and somehow, it happened ā itās so unreal and absolutely life-changing,ā she beamed.
āAs a parent, it brings me peace of mind. It feels good to know that my children will be taken care of and can pursue the education of their dreams. Itās amazing to be able to provide this for them,ā Pelka concluded.
She bought her winning lottery ticket at Petro-Canada on Mud Street West in Stoney Creek.
Don’t forget to check your Lotto Max numbers from Tuesday’s draw. You could be a big winner like Pelka.
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,Ā check out these resources.