An Ontario Lottery Winner Says He Wants To 'Calm Down' Before Spending His $5 Million

"It's still hard to comprehend."

Ontario lottery winner, Marek Lewandowski.

Ontario lottery winner, Marek Lewandowski.

Contributing Writer

How long after becoming an Ontario lottery winner should you start spending money? There's no right answer, but Marek Lewandowski said he's waiting until he can "calm down."

According to OLG, Lewandowski, a resident of the Greater Toronto Area, won a stunning $5 million in the Lotto 6/49 Classic Jackpot draw on March 1, 2023.

While collecting his cheque at the OLG Prize Centre in Toronto, the 50-year-old father recalled what it felt like to hold the winning ticket in his hands.

"I thought I won $5,000 at first, but after a closer look I realized it was a $5 million win. I was calm but excited – I scanned it another four times. I was so amazed!" he shared.

However, quadruple-checking his ticket did little to ease the construction worker's mind.

"Even though I have this cheque – it’s still hard to comprehend. It's just amazing," the lottery winner said.

When asked about his plans for the sum, the family man admitted he wasn't in the right headspace to make any big moves.

"I want to calm down and really put some thought into it before making any decisions," Lewandowski concluded.

When is the next 6/49 draw?

Every Wednesday and Saturday, Lotto 6/49 presents players with the opportunity to win two multi-million dollar jackpots for $3 per play.

The Classic Draw offers a set $5 million jackpot for each draw, while the Gold Ball Draw guarantees a prize of $1 million.

The jackpot starts at $10 million and increases every time it's not won until it caps off at $60 million.

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, refer to these helplines across Canada. Support is available.

  • Contributing Writer

    Patrick John Gilson (he/him) is a Contributing Writer with Narcity Media. He is a pro at ensuring his content is both exciting and tailored to millennials. He specializes in breaking news and investigative stories that require him to be on scene— something he enjoys and thrives in.

Lotto 6/49 winners split a $5M jackpot with another ticket and didn't believe it was real

They checked the ticket online and at a store to make sure they really won the jackpot. 💸

13 Canadian tax credits you could claim when filing your return this year

Some credits reduce the tax you owe and others get you money back! 🤑

CSIS is hiring for these jobs in Ontario that pay up to $120,000 a year

Some positions don't require a university degree or a college diploma.

Some Canadians who bought Taylor Swift tickets on StubHub could be eligible for a full refund

A deal has been reached with StubHub Canada after an investigation into the company's ticket sales practices.

Canadian serial killer Allan Legere, the 'Monster of the Miramichi,' has died in prison

The 78-year-old convicted murderer and rapist was serving a life sentence.

An ice storm threatens 20 mm of freezing rain and warnings are in effect for parts of Ontario

Power outages and property damage are likely because of ice build-up.

Ontario storm is bringing ice, flooding, power outages, thunderstorms & up to 20 cm of snow

Ontario's weather this week is shaping up to be an absolute mess.

Carney is now 2 seats from a majority after another floor crossing, with 3 more up for grabs

The Liberals are now two seats away from a majority with three by-elections next month.