NI woman looks back at how Lottery win changed her life

Inventor Anne, who is also working on a number of writing projects, says that the money she won has afforded her the freedom to spend more time with the people she loves, travel the world and pursue her passions

Five years on from her EuroMillions win, Anne Canavan reflected on the changes in her life. Before striking it rich, the inventor and mum of four was working at a variety of jobs to support her family and help develop her inventions.

That all changed when she bought herself a EuroMillions ticket with some loose change she found in her pocket whilst out shopping with a friend.

Now, with residences in Londonderry and Co Donegal, Anne says that the money she won has afforded her the freedom to spend more time with the people she loves, travel the world and pursue her passions.

National Lottery winner Anne Canavan and daughter Cressida made an emotional return to the Beech Hill Country House Hotel where five years earlier, it was announced that Anne had won a life-changing £1M on EuroMillions

Speaking during an emotional return to Beech Hill Country House Hotel, where five years ago she announced her win to the world, Anne said:

“It has completely changed my life. Money doesn’t necessarily buy happiness but it does buy freedom, and I’ve certainly enjoyed a lot of that since I won. I’m free to pursue other things and I have free time to do what I want to do.

“In particular it’s afforded me the opportunity to spend more time and have fun with my children as well as my dear Dad in England.”

The money has also enabled Anne to develop her inventions, including the Snotblot – a wristband for children and adults that stores tissues within handy reach.