Derek H – Eugene — 05/04/23
Why Not Me?
Derek H., from Eugene, arrived at the Prize Claim Center accompanied by his father, both brimming with excitement, as Derek claimed his $100,000 Scratch-It prize. The story began in the early hours when Derek made a delivery to AM/PM in Springfield.
Feeling inspired after hearing about another player’s $50,000 win, Derek decided to purchase a “7’s on Fire” Scratch-it. It had been years since his last Scratch-it purchase, but he thought, “Why not me?”
After pulling over to check his ticket, Derek discovered he was a top-prize winner. He called his dad, who initially doubted the news. Confirming his win through the Oregon Lottery app, Derek called his dad again, and they promptly scheduled a same-day appointment to claim Derek’s win in Salem.
Overwhelmed by emotion, Derek felt physically drained and even a bit sick from all the excitement. His sleepless night, unexpected win, and hour-long drive to Salem took a toll; it didn’t, however, dampen his enthusiasm!
With the prize money, Derek plans to pay off his car and repay his dad. Today marks a day filled with many new possibilities!