A Pennsylvania breast cancer survivor and grandmother scored a more than $2 million jackpot playing online Monopoly – the largest payout the state has ever awarded for the game.
Nicole Walter – a 42-year-old with 10 grandkids – was playing Monopoly Progressive Jackpots on her cellphone when a routine session with her fiancé turned into a life-changing moment, according to the Pennsylvania Lottery.
“I was playing PA Lottery games on my phone, and he was playing on his phone, and he said, ‘Hey, I like the Monopoly one, let’s try it,’” Walter said.
“Then my screen went blank and popped up $2 million. I was shocked — I didn’t even say anything at first.”
The Warren County victor, fresh off radiation treatment for her 2023 cancer diagnosis, won a total of $2,021,096.49 from the subscription-based digital draw, officials said.
Walter, who also survived a heart attack, said she’s been playing the Pennsylvania Lottery since it launched its arsenal of online games in 2018 due to its convenience.
“We enjoy it – and this time, it really paid off,” the lucky winner added.
With a love for her big family and a passion for race cars, Walter is eager to invest her winnings in creating lasting memories with her loved ones.
Though her first priority is to use her massive haul to renovate her beloved farmhouse, a sentimental property a “really good friend” sold to her.
“Nicole’s incredible story reminds us that life can change in an instant, and we’re honored to be part of such meaningful moments for our players across Warren County and beyond,” Drew Svitko, Pennsylvania’s Lottery Executive Director, said in a statement.
“We’re also proud of the work we do every day that benefits older Pennsylvanians through vital life-sustaining programs.”
Officials said the games have generated more than $500 million for programs benefiting programs for seniors.
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