IN a heartwarming turn of events, a Raleigh resident has hit the jackpot, and he's got big plans to spoil his mother.

After winning a cool $200,000 in a second-chance lottery drawing, he's set to give his mother the vacation she deserves.

"I was already planning to take her, but now she can have even more fun on the cruise," he shared with a grin.

His winning ticket was 1 in over 4.1 million, making his victory in the fifth and final Carolina Jackpot Second Chance drawing a stroke of incredible luck.

Recalling the moment he realized he had won, he said, "I had to read the email three times before I realized it."

He picked up his winnings this Wednesday at lottery headquarters. After taxes, he's walking away with $142,500.

"I’m in disbelief still," he admitted. "But I’m excited."

It's not all splurging, though. He intends to pay off some bills with his newfound wealth, demonstrating a practical side to his big win.

Silver lining

The lottery offers a silver lining to players who didn't win the first time around.

By scanning their tickets into their lottery accounts, they were given another shot at luck in the next drawing.

And for those curious about the impact of these winnings, the NC Lottery raised $64.1 million for Wake County in 2022 alone.

More information on how these funds are used can be found in the "Impact" section at www.nclottery.com.

FAQ : Carolina Second-Chance Drawing

How can I enter?

Purchase any Carolina Jackpot scratch-off, scan the ticket into your lottery account via the app or website, and you'll be automatically entered into the next second-chance drawing.

When and where is the second chance lottery held?

Drawings usually take place in the morning, and winner information can be found on the lottery's website under the specific drawing's "Winners" section.

How often do second chance drawings occur?

The schedule for second chance drawings is listed on each draw's page. The frequency can vary, and the final drawing date is often determined as the games come to an end.

Where do I submit my ticket for a second chance?

You can scan your ticket using the mobile app or enter the numbers manually on the NC lottery website's second chance entry page.

How are winners contacted?

Winners receive an email notification, and if unresponsive, the lottery follows up with a phone call and a certified letter as the claim deadline approaches.

For more details and to answer any further questions, visit the NC Lottery's dedicated FAQ page.