After concealing their incredible fortune for nearly two months, Doug and Enid Hannon, a couple from Lakefield, Ontario, have finally come forward as the lucky winners of a $70 million Lotto Max jackpot. The Hannons, married for 51 years, claimed their prize from the February 20 draw during a celebratory event near their hometown.
The winning journey began when Enid, on a routine trip to their camp, purchased a Quick Pick Lotto Max ticket at a grocery store. The following day, Doug checked the ticket using the OLG App and was stunned to see the words “Big Winner” flash on his screen. “My heart was pounding. I had to stare at it for a while and process all those zeroes,” Doug recalled. He waited in suspense until Enid returned home from work to share the life-changing news.
At home, Doug prepared dinner and afterward, guided Enid to the computer room where the OLG website displayed. Initially, Enid thought they had won $70,000, but a closer look at the zeros on the screen revealed the staggering $70 million prize. The revelation was met with tears and joy as they contemplated the newfound opportunities to support their family and various charitable causes.
Despite their excitement, the Hannons chose to keep their win a secret from everyone, including their adult children and grandchildren, until they could seek financial and legal advice. Enid found it particularly challenging to keep such significant news under wraps, expressing that “keeping this secret was killing me.”
It wasn’t until a week before the official prize collection that they disclosed their fortune to their family, who were overjoyed and in disbelief. During the winner celebration, Doug and Enid shared their plans for the future, which include extensive travels across Canada for Doug and significant home renovations for Enid, who is nearing retirement and has long dreamed of a new kitchen.
The couple emphasized that their family remains their top priority, intending to ensure their well-being and security. They also plan to give back to community causes that are dear to them.
The reveal culminated in a special family meeting where the Hannons announced their win and discussed plans for a grand family trip to celebrate together. “This is truly a blessing for us and our family,” they said. “Like many people, you always hope to win the lottery, but we never dreamt this would happen to us. We are so very thankful.”
The winning ticket was purchased at Kinmount Independent Grocer on Kawartha Lakes County Rd 121 in Kinmount, marking a momentous occasion not only for the Hannons but also for their community.