A BC Lotto Max winner took home a record-breaking $80 million jackpot and plans to give back
A new Lotto Max winner just won a record-breaking $80 million jackpot, in the May 9, 2025 draw. The windfall is the largest lottery jackpot that's ever been won in B.C., and the biggest in Canada that's been won by a single person.
BCLC announced that the Lotto Max winner was a Surrey resident, and at first Justin Simporios joked to his wife that it was them. As it turns out, he was right!
Simporios bought the winning lottery ticket at the Walmart Supercentre in Central City on King George Blvd. in Surrey.
Simporios told BCLC that after checking the numbers he cried and shouted "We're millionaires!" He then woke up his wife to share the exciting news. "She was in complete disbelief and a bit mad at me because our daughter wasn't feeling well," he said.
After learning the big news though, she agreed it was a good reason for the wake up call. As for what he plans to do with the money, Simporios said that he plans to help his and his wife's family.
Giving back to the community is also a priority. "I've struggled before and needed help. Even if I can give an ounce of happiness, I want to help where we can. This feels like a dream," Simporios added.
There's also a trip to the Philippines in the plans, as well as a a LA Lakers game to see LeBron James play.
All in all, this is a life changing win. "The biggest change will be having more time with my wife and family. We want to live with a purpose – to help the community around us," Simporios said.
