North Carolina Woman Wins $2 Million Powerball Prize on Impulse Ticket Purchase
GASTONIA, N.C. — What began as a routine trip to the grocery store turned into a life-changing moment for Pegi Campbell of Cramerton, North Carolina. On a whim, Campbell purchased a $3 Powerball ticket at a Food Lion on South New Hope Road, a decision that ultimately netted her a $2 million prize.
Campbell told officials with the North Carolina Education Lottery that she had not planned to buy a ticket that day, describing it as a “spur-of-the-moment” choice. She selected the ticket for the December 13 Powerball drawing, opting for the Power Play option which multiplies non-jackpot prizes.
When the numbers were drawn, Campbell matched all five white balls, securing a $1 million prize. The 2X Power Play multiplier then doubled her winnings to $2 million. “Wow, that’s a lot of money,” Campbell said upon learning of her good fortune.
Rather than focusing solely on personal gain, Campbell has expressed a strong commitment to using her winnings to benefit others. She plans to donate a significant portion of the prize to local charities, including a domestic violence shelter. “I will make sure it gets used for good,” she said. “We can help a lot of people with this.”
The Powerball lottery, operated by a consortium of state lotteries, has become one of the most popular games in the United States, with jackpots frequently reaching hundreds of millions of dollars. The official Powerball website provides detailed information on game rules and recent winning numbers.
Campbell’s story is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of lottery winnings and the impact they can have on communities. The North Carolina Education Lottery, established to support education funding in the state, has awarded millions in prizes since its inception. According to the Lottery’s financial reports, a significant portion of ticket sales revenue is directed toward educational programs and community initiatives.
Lottery officials encourage players to participate responsibly and highlight that while the odds of winning large prizes are slim, the funds raised contribute to important public services. For more information on responsible gaming and lottery operations, the North Carolina Department of Insurance offers resources and guidance.
As Campbell prepares to distribute her winnings to causes close to her heart, her story continues to inspire others who dream of sudden fortune. Her experience underscores how a simple, unplanned decision can lead to extraordinary outcomes — both for individuals and the communities they support.
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