A Thunder Bay couple’s lives took a joyous turn after they discovered their Lotto 6/49 Gold Ball Draw ticket was worth an incredible $1 million. Steve and Joanne Scerba, long-time residents of Thunder Bay, are now planning a bright future filled with home improvements, investments, and sunny vacations.
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The Moment of Discovery
Steve Scerba, a public service worker, recounted the moment he learned of their win.
“I was at the store using the ticket checker when the screen flashed the incredible news. I scanned the ticket at least eight times, convinced it was a mistake. Initially, I thought we had won $100,000,” Steve said.
It wasn’t until he asked the store clerk to verify the ticket that the full magnitude of their prize hit him.
“She confirmed it was a $1-million win, and I was frozen in disbelief. Tears of joy filled my eyes. It was a moment I’ll never forget,” Steve said.
Eager to share the life-changing news, Steve called his wife Joanne.
“At first, I couldn’t understand him; he sounded so emotional,” Joanne said. “I thought something was wrong. When he finally managed to tell me, I couldn’t believe it. I kept asking, ‘Are you sure? Is this real?’ When he showed me the ticket, I burst into tears.”
A New Chapter Begins
The couple traveled to the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) Prize Centre in Toronto to claim their prize. Reflecting on the days following their win, Steve and Joanne described a surreal experience.
“We spent days in a haze of bewilderment,” Steve said. “But now that it’s sunk in, we’re overjoyed and so thankful. This prize has brought us a sense of comfort and excitement for the future.”
Plans for the Future
The Scerbas are putting their winnings to good use. They plan to:
- Complete Home Renovations: Updating their home has been on their list for years, and the winnings will help make those plans a reality.
- Invest in Their Retirement: Joanne, a retired public servant, and Steve are now preparing for a more secure and enjoyable retirement.
- Travel: “We’re dreaming of visiting warm, sunny beaches,” Steve said. “My retirement date has been accelerated, and we can’t wait to relax and explore the world together.”
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Where It All Started
The winning ticket was purchased at the Safeway on Arthur Street West in Thunder Bay, a spot where the couple regularly buys their lottery tickets.
“We’ve always enjoyed playing the lottery for fun, but we never imagined this could happen to us,” Steve said.
A Heartwarming Win
For Steve and Joanne, the $1-million prize is more than just money—it’s a gateway to new opportunities and cherished memories.
“This win has given us peace of mind and the chance to truly enjoy our retirement years,” Joanne shared.
As they look forward to exciting travels and projects, their story is a reminder that life-changing moments can happen when you least expect them.
Congratulations to Steve and Joanne Scerba on their incredible win!
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