After decades of chasing a jackpot dream, a Maryland man finally scored a win worth bragging about — $50,000 from a Pick 5 ticket.

The lucky numbers? A quirky twist on his ex-wife’s birthday: 26212. He grabbed the $1 ticket at a liquor store in Deale, about 45 miles south of Baltimore, and this time, the gamble paid off big.

“I’ve had some small wins here and there, but nothing major… until now,” he told lottery officials. The victory, he added, feels long overdue: “It’s about time I won something like this.”

For now, the win is a family secret. He’s only told his kids — but promised they’re in for a “very good Christmas.”

• First major win after playing since the 1990s

• $1 ticket turns into a $50,000 prize

• Winning numbers tied to his ex-wife’s birthday

 

While this story has a happy ending, not all lottery journeys do. Gambling can become addictive and cause serious harm. If you or someone you know needs help, call the National Gambling Hotline at 1-800-522-4700.

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