An Elizabeth City retiree says she plans to “live a little easier” after winning $1 million in the North Carolina Powerball lottery on October 22nd.
Diana Forbes’ Quick Pick ticket matched all five white balls but not the red Powerball. She learned about her win after calling the lottery’s hotline to check her numbers the next morning.
“It was really surreal,” Forbes said. “I called twice to make sure I had the numbers written down correctly. Then I woke up my husband and said ‘Honey, I think we won a nice prize.’ This will change our lives in a lot of ways for the better. I’m definitely going to live a little easier.”
After state and federal taxes were withheld, Forbes received a check for $692,000. She purchased the lucky ticket at the Eagle Mart on North Road Street in Elizabeth City.
As she collected her winnings on Monday, Forbes said that she appreciates that the money she spends on the lottery goes to a good cause.
“The better your education, the better your life,” Forbes said. “It’s important for the kids to know that we are behind them. I appreciate what the lottery does for education. That money couldn’t go to a better place.”
