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'I was in disbelief': Vancouver man checks lottery ticket multiple times after massive win

"It's overwhelming. I can now retire and have more financial security."
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Jonas Winlaw won $25,000 a year for life by playing the Daily Grand. He opted for a lump sum, however.

A lucky Vancouverite plans to retire early after winning a whopping $500,000.

Jonas Winlaw won $25,000 a year for life from the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) from the Dec. 26, 2022 Daily Grand draw. However, he opted for the lump sum cash payment of $500,000 instead. 

“I was in my kitchen at home when I found out I won,” he recalled. “The first thing that crossed my mind was dismay. I was in disbelief and had to check a few more times.”

The local man first checked his winning ticket on the BCLC Lotto! app but double-checked it at the lottery kiosk at Denman Place Mall in Vancouver where he originally bought it.

Winlaw plans to celebrate by treating his friends to a nice dinner and is excited to retire and fulfill his dream of purchasing property. 

When asked how it feels to win, he said: "It’s overwhelming. I can now retire and have more financial security.”