TORONTO, Sept. 17, 2026 /CNW/ -- Stanley J. of Innisfil wasn't expecting anything out of the ordinary when he checked his ticket on the OLG app, but he quickly learned his life was about to change for the better. Stanley discovered he had won the $25 million jackpot in the Friday, July 24, 2026 LOTTO MAX draw.
During a special winner celebration held at Gateway Casino Innisfil, Stanley told us his winning ticket was based on a set of numbers he originally got from a Quick Pick ticket. "A few years ago, I purchased a LOTTO MAX ticket with Quick Pick numbers, and I've stuck with those numbers ever since. I guess that was a good decision."
He purchased his ticket while visiting his girlfriend in Woodstock and later checked it using the OLG app. At first, Stanley thought he had won $25,000. "I soon realized I won much more, but I was in shock. I asked my girlfriend to check my ticket for me, and she thought I was joking until she saw the prize amount of $25 million. We were both shocked," Stanley recalled during his winner celebration.
Stanley, who worked as a plumber for about 40 years, described what happened when he began sharing the news of his windfall. "I wanted to quietly tell a few family members and friends, but to my surprise, word spread fast. Everyone was happy for me and said it couldn't have happened to a nicer guy," he added with a smile. "I'm still in shock. It won't feel real until I see the balance in my bank account, and it'll take some time to sink in."
A short time later, when he saw the $25 million in his bank account, his eyes welled up with emotion and he shouted out, "Wow! I am friggin' millionaire!"
With his windfall, Stanley plans to buy a new house on the lake, share his winnings with his immediate family. "I want to spoil my granddaughter and daughter," he said. "This win brings me a sense of comfort."
Stanley also looks forward to travelling and creating lasting memories along the way. "I'd like to show my girlfriend some of my favourite places. I love the sun, sand, and beaches."
A fan of classic cars and trucks, Stanley has also begun the search for his dream classic hot rod.
Stanley's $25 million winning LOTTO MAX ticket was purchased at Food Basics on Dundas Street in Woodstock.
For video and photos of Stanley's Winner Celebration, including his reaction to seeing his bank account, please click the link below:
Winner Celebration Video and Photos:
(link is active for 30 days – no password is required to access it)
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SOURCE Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (Media Relations)
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