For Maria Jones of Portage, a routine visit turned into an unforgettable memory when she discovered she had won a $570,000 top prize on her favorite game, the $20 Diamond 7s Scratch-off. 

The day she won the top prize happened to be on the anniversary of her late daughter’s passing. The date already held deep personal significance for her, and the timing added an unexpected layer of reflection to the day.

When Maria scratched the winning ticket, she could hardly believe what she was seeing. The disbelief continued at the Indianapolis Hoosier Lottery Prize Payment Office, where she played another $20 Diamond 7s Scratch-off while waiting and won again—this time $500.

Maria noted that the date will always carry both remembrance and meaning. While it remains an important and difficult anniversary, she also sees the timing of the win as a bright spot during a difficult day.

After a career working in Portage schools, Maria and her husband are now retired. She plans to use the winnings to support her family and provide for future generations. “This will be a nice nest egg,” Maria said.

What began as a simple stop for a Scratch-off became a day she will remember for many reasons. 

$20 Diamond 7s Estimated Overall Odds 1 in 3.80