The Canadian Red Cross is renowned for its humanitarianism — from
helping people affected by disasters to first aid training.
Little did
Julie Mercer expect, however, to receive a cheque for $250,000 from the
organization.
But that’s exactly what happened yesterday at the Red Cross’ Ontario Zone headquarters on Cancross Crt. in Mississauga.
Mercer and her husband, Andy, were there to pick up the first prize in the agency’s 2008 lottery, overcoming odds of one in 110,000.
The 81-year-old Brampton woman said she was stunned when informed two weeks ago of her win.
“I couldn’t believe it...I just couldn’t believe it. I kept saying, ‘You’re pulling my leg,’ but they said it was true,” Mercer told The News.
Mercer said she had intended to purchase three tickets, but at the last minute decided to buy four instead. And as luck would have it, she won with the fourth ticket.
Mercer said she and her husband plan to do some redecorating, and spoil their children a bit. They also inquired about making a donation to Red Cross.
“Red Cross does good work,” said Mercer. “That’s why we bought the tickets in the first place.”
