Every day is a celebration now for Salmon Arm resident Michael Strauch thanks to a half-a-million dollar windfall.
Strauch recently won the $500,000 prize through the April 26, 2024 Lotto Max draw, his ticket purchased at Matchbox in Centenoka Mall. Strauch was taken aback when he learned of the win.
“The retailer said, ‘You are a winner! You just won $500,000.’ I was freaking out and said, ‘Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, this is a dream,’” said Strauch in a BC Lottery Corporation (BCLC) media release.
“A few customers in the store congratulated me and we were happy together in that moment. It was really beautiful.”
News of the win was also well-received by Strauch’s partner.
“We cried together, and she felt so much joy for me and for our future,” said Strauch.
The BCLC said Strauch plans to purchase a home with his winnings.
“This win gives me the ability to slow down if I want to,” said Strauch. “Every day is a celebration now. We can relax and buy a home and that brings an overwhelming amount of joy and gratitude into our lives.”