A Dublin woman has spoken of her shock after winning €20,000 on a €2 National Lottery Scratch Card purchased on Parnell Street.
Luciana Silva do Nascimento picked up the winning Hot 7s Scratch Card at Centra, Gregg Court, Parnell Street, Dublin 1, after making what she described as a spur-of-the-moment decision while buying a Daily Million ticket.
Speaking as she collected her prize at National Lottery headquarters, Luciana recalled the moment she realised she had landed the game's top prize.
"I had just left the store and decided to scratch it. I thought, 'OMG, I think I've won!' I ran straight back into the shop to check. I was so excited, I could've danced on the street!" she said.
The lucky winner said the days between discovering the win and collecting her cheque had been filled with excitement and nerves.
Luciana Silva do Nascimento won the top prize of €20,000 on the Hot 7s Scratch Card. Photography by Julien Behal
"I haven't been sleeping with the excitement and nerves, so I'm looking forward to resting once the Scratch Card is gone and the cheque is in the bank!" she said.
Luciana made sure to keep the winning ticket safe, signing it before storing it in an envelope hidden away at home until she could claim her prize.
When she finally got her hands on the cheque, she said there was only one way to describe it.
"That's the best cheque I've ever seen!"
The Dublin winner now plans to put the money aside and hopes it will help her achieve her goal of buying a home in the future.
The win comes as the National Lottery is encouraging players to support its 'Gift Responsibly' campaign ahead of Father's Day, reminding people that all National Lottery products are strictly for those aged 18 and over.
Luciana was joined by her partner Ana and The Winnies to celebrate her top prize win of €20,000! Photography by Julien Behal
National Lottery spokesperson Darragh O'Dwyer said Scratch Cards can add an extra bit of fun to special occasions but should always be given responsibly.
"Could Dad be unwrapping a National Lottery Scratch Card this Father's Day? It's a fun way to add a little extra excitement to the day, and who knows, it could even make it one to remember."
"As always, we're encouraging players to support our Gift Responsibly campaign and to remember that National Lottery products are strictly for those aged 18 and over. Whether it's Father's Day or any other occasion, if you're gifting a Scratch Card, please gift responsibly."
The National Lottery said almost 30 cent from every €1 spent on its games goes towards supporting Good Causes across Ireland, including projects in sport, youth, health, welfare, education, arts, heritage and the Irish language. Since it was established 39 years ago, more than €7 billion has been raised for Good Causes, including €239.3 million during 2024 alone.
