And the winner is … Michelle De Roma – $39.5 million

Michelle De Roma
Photo: BCLC

“WHEN I won, I wanted to say thank you,” said Michelle De Roma, β€œIt is an amazing blessing.” The Surrey resident matched all seven numbers in the Lotto Max draw held Friday, December 28, 2018, to win the massive jackpot of $39.5 million.

De Roma found out she won after heading to Tsawwassen Mills to do some shopping. β€œI heard someone won in South Delta, so I decided to check my ticket,” she said. β€œI went and scanned it myself and it said β€˜it’s a winner,’ and then the number $39 million came up.”

De Roma, a mother of three, waited a few days to celebrate with her husband and family before claiming her prize. She said: β€œMy husband didn’t believe me at first, so we checked it again online and we matched all the numbers. He is very happy – he shouted β€˜wow!’ and then he kissed me.”

Despite still being in shock, De Roma has some big plans for the future, including a new house and new travel destinations. β€œWe are planning to move out of Surrey, but we don’t know where yet,” she explained. β€œI have always wanted to go to Rome and I really want to see the Coliseum. For the most part right now, though, I’m just thinking about my kids and their future.”

Speaking through happy tears she added, β€œOur lives have been changed forever. Dreams really do come true.”

De Roma purchased her winning ticket at the Gateway Newstand in Tsawwassen Mills.