A man who works as a custodian at a high school in Illinois, USA, celebrated his 60th birthday by visiting the Illinois Lottery headquarters to collect his $2 million prize.
Dave Martinez, a 34-year employee of New Trier High School, said he bought the Merry Millionaire scratch-off ticket in November 19 while purchasing a cup of hot chocolate from a gas station.
Martinez said he initially thought he had won $100,000, but later realised he had actually won $100,000 per year for the next 20 years – a total $2 million before taxes.
“I read the back and I was like ‘Whoa.’ I started jumping up and down with my wife, and then signed the back right away. I still can’t believe it,” Martinez said.
Martinez visited the Lottery Prize Centre two days later, his 60th birthday, to collect his winnings.
“I am going to pay my bills, make wise investments, and maybe take a vacation. I’ve always wanted to go to Hawaii, and now I can!” he told lottery officials.
Martinez said he plans to continue working at New Trier High School until he retires next year.
