First-ever $5 million MEGA win in Alberta!

Edmonton local nets the top prize on MEGA instant ticket

Donald Johannesson was away from home on business when he decided to treat himself by picking up a $50 MEGA ticket. This decision, it turned out, would win the Edmonton resident a $5 million prize!

Johannesson is the first Albertan to win the top prize on MEGA, a $50 national scratch ticket that was released earlier this year. He purchased his ticket at Best Western Plus Sawridge Suites, located at 410 TaigaNova Crescent in Fort McMurray.

“I had dinner at the hotel and bought a couple tickets to scratch once I got to my room,” he explained, adding: When I saw $5 million on the ticket, I immediately thought I was seeing things!”

The winner said he used the Lotto Spot app multiple times to help convince himself that he had actually won.  

“I must have scanned the ticket more than 10 times right there in my room,” he laughed. “It felt insane to believe that I won that much, but I did – it still feels insane!”

Johannesson said he already has a few ideas for his recent windfall, starting with some upgrades to his home.

“We’re going to replace the shingles and hot water tank,” he said. “We don’t love the carpet upstairs, so we’ll put new flooring up there, too.”

“Most importantly, our daughter will never have to worry about paying for school,” he continued. “It’s surreal knowing that everything is taken care of, financially. It’s such a blessing!”