CHICAGO (Gray News) – A fortuitous turn of events has transformed a $10 scratch-off ticket into a life-changing $1 million windfall for an Illinois man, just in time for the festive season.

According to the Illinois Lottery, the anonymous winner, referred to as Mr. M, has decided to retire early, thanks to this unexpected million-dollar bounty.

Overjoyed by his newfound fortune, Mr. M exclaimed, “I had plans to retire next year, but now I don’t have to wait! It’s finally time to focus on what truly matters to me, and that’s my beloved family.”

Officials from the Illinois Lottery shared that the 68-year-old lucky winner can now embrace the holiday season with less work-related stress after hitting the jackpot by playing the 50X Payout scratch-off game.

The life-altering ticket was purchased at Harlem Food & Liquors, situated in the charming town of Harwood Heights.

Recounting the momentous occasion, Mr. M revealed, “While I occasionally buy different lottery tickets, on that particular day, the sight of the blue 50X Payout ticket sparked a good feeling inside me. I took a leap of faith, and I am immensely grateful that I did.”

With his newfound wealth, the fortunate winner intends to trade in his vehicle and acquire a condominium in close proximity to his children.

“This money enables me to retire early and move closer to my kids, allowing me to be more actively involved in their lives. Having become a grandfather, it’s high time I relished spoiling my precious grandkids,” Mr. M expressed with a broad smile.

This victory also brings good fortune to the retailer that sold the winning ticket, as the store will receive a cash selling bonus of $10,000.

Kaushik Patel, the owner of Harlem Food & Liquors, shared his joy, saying, “Mr. M is a valued customer who frequents our store. It so happens that he bought the very last 50X Payout ticket from our machine. Seeing his elation and happiness brought us immense joy. This win couldn’t have happened to a more deserving individual.”