REGINA, Sask. — An early-morning cup of coffee turned into a $2-million celebration for a Regina couple after a routine lottery ticket check revealed they had won big.
Lonnie and Stephanie Tyschinski are celebrating a $2-million Western 649 win from the Oct. 10 draw, and it all started when Lonnie woke up early and decided to check their tickets.
"I woke up, made my coffee, and checked my Western 649 tickets," he explained.
What first appeared to be a modest prize quickly turned into something much bigger as Lonnie took a closer look at the numbers.
“At first I thought I only had three numbers and $40, but then I noticed more numbers as I was using my phone for light,” he laughed. “Then I realized I had six numbers and I knew I won two million bucks!”
After confirming the numbers, Lonnie couldn't wait to share the news with his wife.
He immediately woke Stephanie to tell her about their unexpected fortune, although she remembers the moment a little differently.
"He scared me!" she laughed.
Once the initial shock wore off, the couple began making plans for their newfound wealth.
"We’re going to pay some bills, pay off our house, and do some renovations to it,” the couple explained.
But their plans aren't all about paying bills and making home improvements. A vacation is also on the horizon.
“Lonnie hasn't really been anywhere," continued Stephanie. "We're definitely going to Mexico!"
For a couple whose day started with an ordinary cup of coffee, the unexpected windfall has been difficult to put into words.
When asked how it feels to win $2 million, both agreed on the answer.
"It’s amazing, overwhelming and a dream come true!"
The Tyschinskis purchased their winning ticket at Rochdale Esso, located at 6034 Rochdale Blvd. in Regina.
Their $2-million prize came from matching all six main draw numbers in the Oct. 10 Western 649 draw: 3, 6, 10, 15, 30 and 36.
More information about lottery games, winning numbers and programs supported by lottery proceeds is available at sasklotteries.ca.
