A $5 Million Jackpot Without Ever Leaving Home

For Jackie L, buying lottery tickets has always been about keeping things simple and convenient. The Richmond retiree uses a PlayNow lottery subscription, a routine he’s stuck with for years. Jackie started using the BCLC Lotto! app during COVID, when going out felt like one more difficult thing to navigate. He didn’t want to miss buying his usual ticket though, so he did it online. After that, he never went back to the store. “So much easier,” he said. Because Jackie never wanted to miss a draw, even while on vacation, he got a subscription, so he could automate upcoming lotto purchases.

It’s the easy way to play, and it suits Jackie’s quiet, laidback style. Then Jackie got a surprise – a $5 million win on Gold Ball Lotto 6/49.

“We will be a-ok.”

Jackie checks his app frequently to see if he’s won; it’s become a part of his routine. But that day in January, when he casually checked his phone, things started to look different. He rubbed his eyes, checked again and again, and realized he was a winner of $5 million. He didn’t leap up in excitement, scream, or panic. He simply took a few deep breaths and smiled to himself. He resolved to stay as practical and grounded as ever. Casually, he told his wife that they were suddenly $5 million richer. He couldn’t help but smile as her eyes grew wide. But they quickly hatched a plan that suited their lowkey lifestyle; not telling anyone. “We are keeping it a secret for now,” Jackie said. The couple went about their day as if nothing had changed. No impulse purchases, no last-minute vacation.

His thoughts went straight to the people he loves. “My son and grandkids don’t have to worry.” But Jackie still didn’t rush to tell the rest of the family. He and his wife quietly enjoyed just how much easier they made life for their loved ones. And they’ve been beaming since, happily sitting on a $5 million secret – that's finally not so secret anymore.

Ultimately Jackie wasn’t as interested in celebration as he was in practicality. Retirement now seemed like a much more comfortable situation. “If we don’t change our lifestyle, we will be A-OK” he said, noting that he’ll “have to be careful not to squander it on silly things.”

Now that he’s won, Jackie sees no reason to stop playing. “I’ve got a feeling I’m going to win again,” he said with a twinkle.

“I’ve got a feeling I’m going to win again.”

Jackie’s quiet win is a reminder that the next big lottery moment could happen just as quietly. There isn’t always a huge moment of celebration. Sometimes it’s as easy as setting up a subscription and forgetting about it. Until that deposit comes in.