A Michigan man, Kenneth Stayt, recently experienced a significant change in his life after winning a substantial prize from the Michigan Lottery. The 70-year-old Genesee County resident hit the jackpot with a ‘$25,000 a year for life’ prize thanks to his Lucky for Life ticket that matched the five white balls drawn on July 19.
His winning numbers were: 12, 23, 33, 35, 36.
Typically, Kenneth plays Club Keno when visiting Sagebrush Cantina in Fenton. However, on this particular occasion, he opted for a Lucky for Life ticket, which led to his incredible win later that night.
“I went to MichiganLottery.com to check the winning numbers around midnight and was amazed when I saw my ticket matched all five of the white balls,” Kenneth shared in a Michigan Lottery news release.
“This is a life-changing amount of money that will allow me to live easy and not have to worry about things,” he expressed.
Interestingly, Kenneth chose to keep his windfall a secret from his family and friends, including his children, for a specific reason.
He opted for a one-time lump sum payment of $390,000 instead of receiving $25,000 annually for 20 years or for life, whichever is longer, as stated by Michigan Lottery officials.
“I’ve been keeping my big win a secret from my kids,” Kenneth revealed, adding that he plans to surprise them now that he has received his check.
“Now that I have my check, I plan to surprise them with the money!” he said, holding his large winning cheque that confirms him as ‘a big lottery winner.’
Looking ahead, Kenneth was discreet about his spending plans but assured that he will distribute some of his winnings to family and friends while investing the rest to enjoy a comfortable retirement.
The Lucky for Life game offers participants the opportunity to win either $1,000 a day for life or $25,000 annually for life by purchasing a $2 ticket.
To secure the top daily prize, players must match all five winning numbers, which range from one to 48, along with one Lucky Ball numbered between one to 18.
Participants like Kenneth, who match all five numbers but not the Lucky Ball, receive the $25,000 annual prize.
The draw takes place every day at 10.38pm.