$60 million Lotto Max winner played same numbers for 20 years after husband dreams it

Jan 19 2021, 4:14 pm

It looks like dreams really do come true!

Ontario’s multi-million dollar winner proves you shouldn’t give up, winning $60 million on LOTTO MAX with the same numbers she played for 20 years.

For the last 20 years, 57-year-old Deng Pravatoudom has been playing lottery numbers that came to her husband in a dream, hoping that one day, she’d bring the big win home.

“I left my temple after prayers, went to a nearby mall for some errands and to check my LOTTO MAX ticket. I won a Free Play ticket and added ENCORE. I couldn’t believe a few days later that [the] free ticket would be worth $60 million,” said Pravatoudom, according to OLG, after winning the December 1, 2020 draw.

And funny enough, Pravatoudom said her husband was the one who shared the news of their win.

“I went to the bank to pay some bills, and my husband went to check the tickets. When we got into the car, he told me we won the $60 million jackpot,” said Pravatoudom. “He was serious, not joking, so I knew he was telling the truth. I started to cry. I have always prayed for a blessing that my family would be taken care of!”

Pravatoudom was also the first to experience OLG’s virtual Winner’s Celebration, which was formed due to the province-wide lockdown.

After immigrating to Canada from Laos in 1980 with her 14 siblings, Pravatoudom has been working as a general labourer along with her husband for over 40 years, saving money for their family.

“My family was sponsored by a local church, and because we had nothing, I am thankful for the great support they provided us over the years,” said Pravatoudom. “My husband and I have worked long hours as general labourers for over 40 years, trying to save what we could for our family. Due to the pandemic, I was laid off last spring, so this money will certainly help make our lives much easier.”

What’s next for the big winners? The happy couple will be moving out of their apartment and buying a new house, paying off some bills and helping their family, and once the coast is clear, travel the world.

“Except for when I came to Canada from Laos, I have never really travelled, so I want to see Europe, Texas, Hawaii… I am excited to see the world,” she shared.

The winning lottery ticket was purchased at Gateway Newstands on Yonge Street in North York.

Karen DoradeaKaren Doradea

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