A typical evening turned into an unforgettable moment for Stacey and Raymond Donison from Victoria as they clinched the $5-million jackpot in the November 18th, Lotto 6/49 draw.
The buzz around their win emerged after Raymond’s exuberant reaction while watching a Canucks game, as he began hollering from the kitchen that interrupted Stacey’s quiet reading session.
“I checked my numbers online and then I called my wife in right away to tell her,” recalled Raymond, of the moment he realized they won.
“I didn’t know what was going on!”
Stacey, initially assuming it was one of Raymond’s playful pranks, couldn’t fathom the news until they validated their ticket at the BCLC Lotto kiosk at Hillside Mall.
The couple’s celebration plans? Simple and heartfelt.
“Beers, pizza and champagne!” exclaimed Raymond.
But beyond the immediate celebration, the Donisons have their sights set on more significant plans. A trip to Hawaii and a grand family vacation are on the horizon, but what truly resonates with them is the prospect of securing a lasting legacy for their grandchildren.
“This win means the world to us — we can leave a legacy for our grandkids,” said Stacey.
“My bucket list was to make sure that everyone in the family was happy and financially taken care of,” added Raymond.
Their winning ticket was purchased at the Esso station on Fort and Morrison Streets in Victoria. They officially claimed their $5-million jackpot on November 24th, at BCLC’s Vancouver office, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the fortunate couple.
Amidst their win, the Donisons’ story adds to the string of luck witnessed by BC lottery players in 2023, with over $115 million in winnings redeemed from Lotto 6/49 thus far.
