For Chelsea Carter, a house cleaner from Ocean Isle Beach, turning 40 was already a significant milestone. However, her 40th birthday turned into a day she’ll never forget. Why? She hit a progressive jackpot worth a staggering $626,543 playing an online digital game.
Chelsea decided to play the Monopoly digital instant game offered by the North Carolina Education Lottery.
For only $10, she entered a game that would change her life forever.
Around 2 a.m., as most of her neighbors were fast asleep, Chelsea received the shock of a lifetime: the Grand Fortune progressive jackpot popped up on her screen. "This is insane," Chelsea exclaimed, overwhelmed with emotion.
Not wanting to celebrate alone, she immediately woke her husband with the unbelievable news. Initially, he laughed off her claims and went back to sleep, thinking it was a prank. But it was no joke. Chelsea had indeed hit the jackpot.
The odds of winning the Grand Fortune on a $10 play are one in five million.
It reminded us of the Pennsylvania grandmother who won big playing Monopoly at the casino. Or the time a man beat insurmountable odds to hit a jackpot playing Pai Gow Poker.
A Birthday Gift Like No Other
Winning a progressive jackpot is one thing; winning it two days before your birthday is another.
Chelsea claimed her prize at lottery headquarters on her birthday, and lottery officials recorded the entire event and posted it to its X account.
She took home $449,548 after federal and state tax withholdings. “This is the best birthday present ever,” she shared. Chelsea humorously added, "I want to turn 40 every year if this is going to happen."
Investment and Security for the Future
The substantial windfall has opened up new opportunities for Chelsea and her family.
Responsible with her winnings, she plans to invest, buy land, and create a financial safety net for her three children. "It's a blessing," Chelsea remarked, grateful for the security this brings to her family's future.
The Monopoly digital instant game is an exclusive offering via the NC Lottery Official Mobile App and website.
With wagers ranging from 50 cents to $30, this game is enticing to many. And after Chelsea's win, the progressive jackpot started climbing again.
How the Lottery Supports Education
The North Carolina Education Lottery has a dual purpose: making personal dreams come true and enhancing educational opportunities in the state.
Its profits contribute to vital educational initiatives, from pre-K programs to college scholarships. Since the lottery's inception, more than $11 billion has been raised for education in North Carolina through lottery games.
Though North Carolina winners cannot remain anonymous, Chelsea is grateful for her life-changing experience and hopeful for all it will mean for her family. Her story reminds us of the possibilities of investing a little hope for a chance at a dream come true.
Just remember that if you do decide to play, always exhibit responsible gambling habits.
