Illinois Man Wins $1 Million From Birthday Lottery Gift
An Illinois man received an unforgettable birthday surprise when a scratch-off ticket from a friend turned into a $1 million lottery win.
The Braidwood resident, who chose to remain anonymous, was celebrating his birthday when a friend gave him an envelope filled with scratch-off tickets.
“I never would’ve imagined actually winning,” he said.
The winning ticket was purchased at Gas N Wash on East Laraway Road in New Lenox. It matched all six numbers — 11, 17, 22, 26, 36 and 45 — in the Million Dollar Lotto drawing held August 8. The ticket also won an additional $2 on another line.
At first, the winner believed he had hit just $1,000. The real shock came when he visited an Illinois Lottery prize center.
A staff member told him, “Sir, you actually won a million dollars.” His wife became emotional as the couple realized the size of the prize.
Plans for the $1 Million Prize
The couple plans to celebrate with family and take their annual trip to Florida. They’re also considering:
- 🚗 Buying a new car
- ⛳ Getting a golf cart
- 🚢 Taking a cruise for their 40th anniversary and their children’s birthdays
The winner jokingly told his family, “Dad’s paying.”
So far in 2026, Illinois Lottery players have claimed more than 4.1 million winning Lotto tickets, worth over $47 million in total prizes.
Meanwhile, the store that sold the lucky ticket will receive a $10,000 bonus from the Illinois Lottery.