Karen Coffman, a resident of Freeport, Pennsylvania, experienced a bittersweet twist of fate when a scratch-off lottery ticket she purchased turned out to be a million-dollar winner just two weeks before her husband passed away from complications related to a brain tumor in April.
Speaking emotionally at a ceremony where lottery officials presented her with a ceremonial check at the gas station where she bought the winning ticket, Coffman, 61, recounted her disbelief when she initially shared the news with her husband of 31 years, Robert.
“When I told him about the prize, he thought I was lying to him,” Coffman said. She believes her win may have been a sign of intervention from her late husband, who had expressed concerns about potential financial struggles after his passing.
A regular at the gas station where she purchased the winning ticket for $20, Coffman described herself as a consistent player of scratch-off lottery tickets. Her disbelief turned to joy when a station employee confirmed her win, leaving her shaking as she returned home to share the news with her husband.
Coffman, who opted for a lump sum payout, recently retired from the senior care industry and plans to use part of her winnings to treat family members to a luxury Disney vacation. Her future plans also include relocating to Florida to escape the cold Pennsylvania winters.
Despite her windfall, Coffman intends to continue playing the lottery when life settles down, highlighting her enduring hope and gratitude amidst a poignant moment of unexpected fortune.
Key Points
Timing of Win: Karen Coffman purchased a scratch-off lottery ticket two weeks before her husband, Robert, passed away from complications related to a brain tumor in April.
Winning Ticket: The ticket, bought for $20 at a gas station where Coffman is a regular customer, turned out to be a million-dollar winner.
Initial Reaction: Coffman’s husband initially thought she was joking when she told him about the prize, reflecting disbelief turned to joy.
Emotional Impact: Karen Coffman believes her win may have been a spiritual sign from her late husband, who had concerns about her financial future.
Plans for Winnings: She plans to use part of the lump sum payout for a luxury Disney vacation for her family and intends to relocate to Florida to avoid cold winters.
Retirement and Future: Having recently retired from the senior care industry, Coffman looks forward to enjoying her retirement and continues to play the lottery occasionally.
Community Connection: Coffman is well-known at the gas station where she purchased the ticket, emphasizing her regular involvement with lottery games.
