Beginner’s Luck Strikes as First-Time Player Scores $333,333
A Toronto woman went from “just for fun” to life-changing luck after buying her very first lottery ticket — and hitting it big.
Iryna Tereshchuk, 30, couldn’t believe her eyes when she discovered she’d won $333,333.40 in the November 25, 2025, Lotto Max draw. Her ticket was one of three that split a $1 million Maxmillions prize.
From casual chat to major win
The digital media professional said the idea to play came up during a casual conversation with a coworker. On a whim, she picked up a ticket — not expecting much at all.
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First time ever playing the lottery
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Checked the numbers online after the draw
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Realized they matched the Maxmillions numbers, not the jackpot
“That’s when it really hit me,” she said. “I couldn’t believe it was real.”
Mom got the first call
Still stunned, Tereshchuk immediately called her mom to share the news — though it took some convincing.
“She was skeptical at first,” Tereshchuk laughed. “Honestly, I was too. It feels unreal, but amazing.”
Big plans ahead
With her surprise win, Tereshchuk says she’s looking forward to:
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Traveling and exploring new places
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Spoiling her parents a bit
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Investing in education and learning new skills
“It’s such a relief not to stress about the cost of trying new classes or learning something new,” she said.
