Noel Patricio emerged as the winner of $68 million in the Lotto 6/49 draw held on September 27, as reported by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG).
In a life-altering stroke of luck, Noel Patricio, a resident of Toronto, clinched the monumental $68 million Lotto 6/49 Gold Ball jackpot in the draw on September 27. This historic win stands as the largest jackpot ever recorded in the history of Lotto 6/49, as declared by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) in a news release on Thursday.
Remarkably, Patricio, who is deeply invested in the field of housekeeping, expressed his intention to maintain his work routine despite the newfound fortune. In a down-to-earth fashion, he revealed that he plans to continue working, albeit "a little bit less." The man of the hour emphasized his genuine affection for his work and the camaraderie he shares with his colleagues, asserting, “I love the work I do and the people I work with, and that makes my two jobs so meaningful to me. I want to be the same Noel.”
Patricio, a regular participant in Lotto 6/49, bought the winning ticket during a break from his work routine. When he discovered that the winning ticket originated from Toronto, he realized he had the ticket in his pocket and promptly checked it using the OLG app. Initially thinking he had won $68,000, Patricio excitedly informed his sister of his apparent windfall. It was only upon his sister's keen observation of the six zeroes that he grasped the staggering reality — he had won $68 million.
Maintaining a sense of disbelief, Patricio continued with his work responsibilities, sneaking into the bathroom throughout the day to repeatedly confirm the winning numbers. The magnitude of the win was so surreal to him that he questioned its authenticity, wondering if it was a dream. Despite the shock, he diligently completed his first job, intermittently checking his ticket between shifts.
Choosing to keep the win under wraps, Patricio shared the news only with his immediate family. Even when colleagues discussed the winning ticket being sold in Toronto, he refrained from disclosing his identity as the fortunate winner. Deliberating before claiming his prize, he ensured everything was "in place" before making the life-changing announcement.
Looking ahead, Patricio intends to use his winnings to renovate his current residence and treat his sisters to a memorable vacation in Italy. A tennis enthusiast, he aspires to witness Rafael Nadal play live and is keen on securing season tickets for the Toronto Raptors. Balancing newfound leisure with a pragmatic outlook, Patricio affirmed, “I will make more time for myself and work a little bit less, but still keep my job.”
Reflecting on his journey, Patricio, who arrived in Canada with minimal possessions, expressed gratitude for the incredible turn of events, saying, “It’s unbelievable to think I am here as the Gold Ball Jackpot winner. I am ready to settle into my excitement and live an exciting life.”
The fortuitous ticket was purchased at Hasty Market on Church Street in Toronto, forever altering the trajectory of Noel Patricio's life.
