A Virginia resident experienced the shock of a lifetime after a spontaneous purchase turned into a $1 million win. The lucky player claimed a top prize on the $1 Million Royale scratch-off, and shared her story at Lottery headquarters in Baltimore, joined by her son.
The winner said she’s been playing the Lottery on and off for about 10 years, usually following her instincts when she feels lucky. Her favorite games tend to be scratch-offs, but she never expected such an incredible outcome.
On the day of her big win, she stopped at Annapolis Wine and Spirits, located at 1307 Forest Drive in Annapolis, to pick up some drinks before heading home to Virginia. While there, she spotted the $20 $1 Million Royale ticket and “couldn’t resist.”
The next day, she scratched the ticket and thought she might have won but wasn’t sure. “I had my son double check it,” she recalled. “He told me to take it to get scanned, and that’s when I found out it was real!”
The winner described the experience as “a shock, but a blessing.” She plans to use her winnings to help cover her family’s medical expenses and ensure her loved ones enjoy a special holiday season. “I’m thankful,” she said. “This will really help my family.”
In addition to caring for her family, she plans to save a portion of her prize and hopes her story inspires others to play responsibly and dream big. “Maybe I’ll get lucky again one day,” she said with a smile.
Annapolis Wine and Spirits receives a bonus of $1,000 for selling the top-prize winning scratch off. The $1 Million Royale ticket has two $1 million top prizes remaining.
