Scarborough woman plans to enjoy the simpler things in life after scoring $1M lottery prize
Laurie Mularchuk of Scarborough won a Lotto 6-49 prize of $1 million in the May 6 draw.
A longtime Scarborough lottery player has finally struck it rich.
Laurie Mularchuk won a $1-million Gold Ball prize in the May 6 Lotto 6-49 draw. She’s been playing the lottery twice a week for about 25 years.
She found out she won when she brought her ticket to a store and let a store employee scan it.
“As the store clerk was scanning my ticket, I said, ‘I think I won three free plays,’” Mularchuk said in an Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp. news release.
“The clerk looked at me and said, ‘Ma’am, you won more than just three free plays.’ That’s when she told me I had won $1 million. I immediately started shaking, and I think my heart nearly stopped.”
She said she was in shock and disbelief and cried tears of joy.
“Even during the ride home, I couldn’t process that I had just become a lottery winner. It was one of the most overwhelming, emotional and unforgettable moments of my life. I still have goosebumps thinking back to that initial moment.”
Afterward, she shared the news with her sister and a few friends. Most initially thought she was joking.
New millionaire has several plans for her windfall
The new millionaire has a few ideas for how she’d like to spend some of her money. Retiring is one of them.
“This win means I can retire and finally enjoy the little things in life. I’m looking forward to having more time for hobbies, spending time with loved ones and living life at a slower pace,” she said.
She also plans to spend some time abroad visiting places that are on her bucket list.
“I’m already planning a trip to London. After that, I’d love to visit Scotland — it’s been a dream destination of mine for years. I hope to explore more of Europe as well and take my time experiencing different cultures,” she said.
Lastly, she will finally get to do something much closer to home that life had always got in the way of.
“There have been many painting classes I’ve wanted to take over the years, but they were always during my work hours. Now, I can sign up and enjoy something I’ve always wanted to do,” she said.
“I feel incredibly fortunate, grateful, and excited for what the future holds.”
The winning ticket was purchased at Shoppers Drug Mart on Eglinton Avenue East in Scarborough.
More information on Ontario’s lotteries is available on the OLG’s website.
What changes did OLG make to lottery winner information?
The OLG changed the way it shares lottery winner information with media outlets in April 2026, which may result in winners’ names not appearing in the news anymore.
Full names of winners over $1,000 published on OLG website
While the OLG no longer shares winners’ last names in media press releases, the lottery operator continues to publish information on all lottery wins of $1,000 or more for 30 days, including the name, city and the prize won.
What does OLG ask winners before handing over the big cheque?
Winning the lottery isn’t as simple as signing your name on your ticket and claiming your prize. Lottery officials ask winners a series of questions before handing over the big cheque to ensure the prize goes to its rightful owners.
Can lottery thieves actually collect stolen winnings?
Once in a while, police report on thieves stealing scratch lottery tickets from convenience stores. If they steal a winner, can they claim it? Check the story to find out.
How do retailers benefit from selling winning lottery tickets?
Certain lotto jurisdictions offer retailers a percentage of the prize when they sell jackpot winners, but not Ontario. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worthwhile for local shops. Read the story to see what Ontario retailers get.
Millions go unclaimed: What happens to unclaimed lottery tickets?
Have you ever bought a lottery ticket and then misplaced it? You’re not the only one. In fact, millions in winnings go unclaimed each year. Check out what happens to the unclaimed winnings.
Lotto Max prices went up
Lottery officials increased the price of Lotto Max tickets to $6, up from $5, but they also made a number of changes to the game that might make it more worthwhile for players.
Are lifetime lottery prizes really for life?
Ontario lottery players can play two games with lifetime prizes. But do the prizes actually pay out ‘til the end of your days?
Need help with problem gambling? Check the PlaySmart website for resources or call ConnexOntario at 1-866-531-2600.
This content is sourced from www.toronto.com and is shared for informational purposes only.
