A simple trip to the grocery store transformed into an extraordinary tale for a retired educator from Hawkesbury, Ontario. François Masse is now $55 million richer, all thanks to a Free Play ticket he almost overlooked.
He remembers the day vividly – a routine errand at Asselin’s Your Independent Grocer. On a whim, he redeemed the Free Play, adding ENCORE for an extra dollar, and continued his day, giving the ticket little thought.
Days later, recalling the forgotten tickets, Masse began to check them. The first yielded another Free Play, the second a modest $40 win. But the third ticket held a destiny he couldn’t have imagined.
The scanner flashed a message that stopped him in his tracks: “Big Winner.” A wave of numbness washed over him, the world seeming to freeze. He paced, trembling, and checked the ticket again, disbelief clinging to him with each passing second.
Even confirming the prize claim process with officials felt surreal. A profound sense of gratitude overwhelmed him as he looked out the window, thinking of his children, his mother, and his brothers.
Sharing the news proved to be a challenge. His family, known for their playful teasing, initially dismissed his claim as an elaborate prank. Even his mother struggled to believe the incredible news.
Masse cleverly orchestrated a reveal, inviting his children over with the promise of a late Christmas gift. He presented each with an espresso machine, a deliberate distraction before asking them to scan the winning ticket themselves.
The moment they saw the “Big Winner” message, a flood of happy tears erupted. It was a scene etched forever in his memory, a shared moment of disbelief and joy.
Now, with $55 million secured, François is already envisioning a future filled with adventure. A celebratory family trip is first on the agenda, followed by a lifelong pursuit of dreams.
His bucket list is ambitious: attending Formula 1 races across the globe, touring iconic NFL stadiums, enjoying leisurely golf trips, and creating lasting memories with his mother. And then there are the horses.
A lifelong admirer of these majestic animals, he’s taken a leap of faith, purchasing a stable despite never having ridden one. “I guess I’m into horses now,” he said with a delighted grin.
Beyond personal fulfillment, Masse’s priority is securing his family’s future for generations to come. He views this win not as a personal windfall, but as a legacy – a foundation for the well-being of those he loves.
“Legacy is important to me,” he explained. “This win isn’t just for me—it’s for my family and the legacy we’ll leave behind.”
