An Illinois Lottery player is feeling extra thankful this holiday season after winning a $1 million prize. (Illinois Lottery)
Chicago
An Illinois man turned a $10 scratch-off ticket into a $1 million prize just in time for the holidays.
According to the Illinois Lottery, the lucky Chicago man, who wanted to be identified as Mr. M, is retiring early thanks to the million-dollar win.
“I was going to retire next year, but now I don’t have to wait!” he said. “It’s time I focus on what really matters, and that’s my family.”
Lottery officials said the 68-year-old will be able to enjoy the holiday season with a little less work after winning the $1 million while playing the 50X Payout scratch-off game.
He purchased the ticket at Harlem Food & Liquors in Harwood Heights.
“I buy different tickets from time to time, but on this day, I saw the blue 50X Payout ticket and had a good feeling about it,” the man said. “I chose to take a chance and I am glad I did.”
He said he plans to trade in his car with his new winnings and buy a condo near his children.
“With this money, I can retire early, and I’m going to move closer to my kids to be more present in their lives. I’m also a grandfather, and its finally time for me to enjoy spoiling my grandkids,” he said.
This is also a big win for the retailer that sold the winning ticket, as the store will receive a cash selling bonus of $10,000.
“Mr. M is a regular customer who comes into our store often,” said Kaushik Patel of Harlem Food & Liquors. “He actually bought the very last 50X Payout ticket in our machine. He was so happy and smiling. It couldn’t have happened to a nicer guy.”