B.C. lottery winner first thought his $1.1-million jackpot was a mistake
A Vancouver Island man is one step closer to his dream vacation after he won a life-changing lottery prize.
Courtenay resident Michael Kramer was playing Powerbucks Wheel of Fortune Elegant Emeralds at home in his living room when he won the massive online slots jackpot of $1,132.698.38 on BCLC’s PlayNow.com.
Kramer was instantly stunned by his big win.
“My first thought was this must be a mistake because this can’t be real,” he said.
The first person he shared the good news with was his mother, who was also shocked by the windfall.
“I told her I thought I had just won a progressive jackpot,” said Kramer. “She was very excited but also was in disbelief.”
While the lottery win feels surreal to the Courtenay resident, Kramer also shared that he feels “fortunate.”
“It means a lot to us as a family,” he said, adding that he intends to celebrate by treating his family to a meal at a “nice restaurant.”
He’ll also be using part of his jackpot to visit Italy, a travel destination he has always dreamed of.
“I have always wanted to visit Tuscany and hope to do so in the not-too-distant future,” added Kramar.
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, you can find resources here.