Juan Rodriguez’s Life Changed Forever with a Single Lottery Win
Juan Rodriguez’s Life Changed Forever with a Single Lottery Win
Who He Was
In New York, Juan Rodriguez was employed at a parking garage. He spent his days providing for his family after relocating from Colombia years ago.
He was regarded as a trustworthy man who genuinely loved his family. His life was straightforward: hard workdays, early mornings, and nights spent with his family at home.There was nothing fancy about his life just a man working hard to take care of those he loved.
How He Won
On November 19, 2004, Juan stopped at a gas station in Queens and decided to buy a Mega Millions ticket. He didn't think much about it and continued with his day.
The next morning, his wife checked the winning numbers online.
To their shock, they had the winning ticket.
The jackpot was $149 million. Juan couldn’t believe it at first he kept checking the numbers to make sure it was real.
What He Took Home
Juan chose the lump-sum payment, which came to about $88.5–$89 million after taxes. His goals were simple: make sure his family was secure, help his children, and plan for a comfortable future.
What He Did Next
Juan didn't do anything after winning. He only spoke to the media once before turning his attention to his family.
He met with advisors to decide how to manage the money and made careful plans rather than making rash, big purchases.
Juan wanted a secure life. He avoided interviews and publicity in favor of remaining near his family.
Want more? We've got plenty of stories about regular people who kept it real when life got crazy.
