Carbondale, Colorado – In a surprising turn of events, a retired man from Carbondale struck it big with a lottery ticket, winning an impressive grand prize of US$3.896 million (approximately RM18.12 million). However, when asked how he intended to spend his newfound wealth, the man left everyone astonished by casually stating, “I just want to buy a new vacuum cleaner.” His response has generated widespread curiosity and intrigue among locals.
The Colorado Lottery Company recently announced that John Stott, a 69-year-old retired trauma nurse, secured the life-changing lottery win by investing a mere US$2 (RM9.3) in a ticket for the draw held on the 10th of this month.
Typically, lottery winners dream of lavish purchases such as luxury homes, cars, or extravagant vacations. However, Stott’s refreshingly simple answer caught many off guard. “Use part of your winnings to buy a new vacuum cleaner,” he responded, sparking bewilderment among those eager to know his plans.
Stott, who spent 30 years working as a trauma nurse in New York City before retiring and settling in Colorado to work at Aspen Valley Hospital, has maintained a modest lifestyle. He revealed that he has been buying lottery tickets every week for the past decade, but never had grand expectations. Living on a fixed daily budget during retirement, he sacrificed indulgences like horseback riding and paragliding for quite some time.
With a warm smile, Stott expressed his desire to revive his two favorite outdoor activities alongside purchasing the vacuum cleaner. In a thoughtful gesture, he intends to buy 100 gift cards from the “City Market” on Highway 133 in Carbondale, the very place where he purchased the winning ticket, and distribute them to others.
Opting for a lump sum payment, Stott received a total of US$1.948 million (approximately RM9.06 million) after taxes. This year alone, the Colorado Lottery has already produced seven million-dollar winners, with Stott becoming the latest addition to the list.
Stott’s remarkable win, coupled with his modest aspirations, serves as a reminder that personal happiness and satisfaction can be found in the simplest of things. His down-to-earth attitude and plans to give back to the community showcase a genuine appreciation for life’s joys beyond material possessions.
As news of his unexpected victory spreads throughout the town, Carbondale residents are inspired by Stott’s humility and his focus on rediscovering cherished passions. It is a testament to the fact that true wealth lies not just in financial abundance but also in embracing the things that bring us genuine happiness and fulfillment.
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