Jackpot lottery of almost $11,000 stays local

Sioux Lookout is home to the most recent jackpot winner and ticket holder of lucky number O-7947876. Cindy Phillips is taking home $10,855 after winning the Sioux Lookout Meno Ya Win Health Centre (SLMHC) Foundation 50/50 lottery on March 18.

Phillips, 58, was raised in the community and her family has lived here for as long as she can remember.

Although local, Phillips is not a regular ticket buyer. This draw caught her eye because she read that 50/50 proceeds help with the purchase of hospital equipment.

“Meno Ya Win means so much to me and the hospital has done so much for my family,” said Phillips. “We are so grateful for the care provided in all different areas of the facility.”

Phillips lost both her brother and her dad to cancer. Each were well known to SLMHC staff members during the different periods of their illnesses.

Her brother, John Mills died of esophageal cancer in 2003 at 42 years old.

“There was a quilt, symbolizing hope, hung up in the chemo area in memory of him,” said Phillips. “And, it’s still there.”

Her father, Derek Mills, who was a regular around the hospital, passed away in 2017. He was familiar with every area of the hospital and so many people knew him.

“Even physio staff knew my dad because they helped him with walking exercises during his battle with brain cancer,” said Phillips.

Her mother, Hazel Mills is also known to staff members. Phillips is so proud of her.

“She is 78 years old and still quilting and donating to the chemo unit.”

Phillips and her husband, Bob will take a short break from family this summer when they travel out to British Columbia in their holiday trailer. In August, they will celebrate 40 years of marriage and they will use some of the winnings for the trip west.

“It will help us purchase gas to get there,” Phillips said, referencing the recent spike in fuel costs, currently valued at roughly two dollars per litre.

“Once we are there, we plan to celebrate our anniversary by sipping wine while enjoying beautiful mountain views,” said Phillips.

SLMHC Foundation is grateful for deserving winners, like Phillips. The foundation is so appreciative of the abundance of local generosity and support.

To learn about how to participate in future lotteries, follow SLMHC on Facebook and Instagram. All lottery proceeds help with the purchase and replacement of necessary hospital equipment.