Birthday surprise turns into $50K payday
GREENSBORO, Md. — A birthday meant for relaxation turned into a life-changing windfall for a Maryland woman after an unexpected power outage led her straight to a $50,000 lottery win.
Alicia, a private caregiver, mother and grandmother from Caroline County, had planned a quiet 40th birthday that included a spa day with her sister-in-law.
But after spending time in a salt cave, the pair learned their next appointment had been canceled due to a power outage — forcing a sudden change in plans.
With extra time on her hands, Alicia made a quick stop at the Quick Shop on Greensboro Road to cash in a scratch-off ticket.
That simple detour changed everything.
Using part of her winnings, she decided to try her luck on something new — purchasing two $10 FAST PLAY High Roller Blackjack tickets from a vending machine.
The first glance at one of the tickets left her thinking she had scored $10,000.
“I was too excited about the $10,000,” she said.
But after scanning the ticket, she quickly realized the prize was much bigger — a $50,000 win.
The moment was so overwhelming that she didn’t feel comfortable driving home right away.
Instead, she called her partner and asked him to meet her nearby so she could share the news face-to-face.
“He thought I was in an accident,” Alicia said.
The grandmother of four later claimed her prize at Maryland Lottery headquarters and said she plans to use the money to pay bills and take a vacation later this year.
The FAST PLAY High Roller Blackjack game, which launched earlier this year, still features multiple large prizes, including progressive jackpots and additional $50,000 wins still up for grabs.
Key Points
- Maryland woman won $50,000 after a spa appointment was canceled
- She initially thought the ticket was worth $10,000 before realizing the full prize
- Winner plans to pay bills and take a vacation