Most of us are going to be affected.

At the start of each year, Wilf makes a list of the charitable organizations he’ll support – and for the past 20 years, that list has always included Heart & Stroke Lottery tickets. “Growing up, my dad had heart problems, which prompted me to start supporting Heart & Stroke,” he explains.

Support is needed more than ever.

As a self-proclaimed health nut, Wilf says: “Many of the organizations I choose are health related. Heart & Stroke is always on the list because let’s face it – our population is getting older, and younger people are being affected by poor diet and lifestyle.

He adds: “Most of us will know someone who has experienced heart disease or stroke. I like that I’m supporting research, but also that I’m spreading the message that having a healthy lifestyle is so important, especially as we get older.”

Too excited to stay quiet.

After the shock of winning wore off, Wilf decided to give his two adult children a cheque. “I’ve been retired almost 30 years and done plenty of travelling, so I’m happy to help my kids. I planned to wait and surprise them in person, but I ended up calling them right away.”

For Wilf, the reason for buying tickets is simple: “It’s a great cause that’s there for all of us, and it needs our support more than ever.”