An Oakland County woman celebrated a $2 million Michigan Lottery win on her wedding anniversary, turning a special day into a life-changing moment. She and her husband plan to use the winnings to buy a house, invest wisely, and save for their children’s college education. The winning ticket was purchased at a gas station in Auburn Hills and discovered while scratching it together on their anniversary.
Lottery Win on a Special Day
The 44-year-old winner, who chose to remain anonymous, and her husband enjoy playing scratch-off tickets, especially the Michigan Lottery’s Diamonds & Gold game. Their luck turned extraordinary when they purchased a winning ticket at Opdyke Featherstone Mobil in Auburn Hills and discovered the prize while scratching it together on their anniversary.
Surprise Discovery
“We scratched this ticket off together on our wedding anniversary and my husband noticed the $2 million prize first,” she said. Though initially doubtful, the couple verified the win by scanning the ticket at a store and using a friend’s Lottery app.
Emotional Reaction
I started shaking and was in total shock when $2 million came up on the screen,” she recalled, describing the moment that changed their lives. The couple’s joy was tempered by the reality of managing such a sudden and significant financial gain, yet the overwhelming feeling was one of gratitude.
Choosing the Lump Sum
Instead of opting for the full $2 million through annuity payments over multiple years, the winner decided to receive a lump sum payment. After taxes and deductions, the payout totaled approximately $1.3 million. This immediate access to funds allows the couple to take control of their financial future without delay.
Plans for the Prize Money
With the prize money in hand, the couple has laid out practical plans for the funds. Their priorities include purchasing a home, which will provide stability and a fresh start. Beyond real estate, they intend to invest wisely to grow their wealth over time. Saving for their children’s college education is also a key focus, ensuring long-term security for their family.
Diamonds & Gold Game’s Continued Success
Since its launch in March 2024, the Diamonds & Gold instant game has been a source of significant winnings for Michigan Lottery players. Over $54 million in prizes have been awarded to date, illustrating the game’s popularity and generous payouts. Despite this, more than $49 million in prizes remain, including one more $2 million top prize waiting to be claimed.
More Big Wins in Michigan
The Michigan Lottery has seen multiple large winners recently, such as a man from Lapeer County who won $300,000. These wins continue to highlight the exciting possibilities for players throughout the state and demonstrate the ongoing appeal of instant games like Diamonds & Gold.