WATCH ABOVE: A big windfall for a Calgary family after they won a record 50/50 jackpot at the Stamps season opener. As Tony Tighe reports, it couldn’t have come at a better time.
CALGARY – Karen and Kevin DeMarsh couldn’t believe what they heard over the sound system at McMahon Stadium while watching the Calgary Stampeders game on Friday night.
Their number was called for the largest ever 50/50 draw, a prize of over $193,000.
“I’m floored. I’m absolutely floored,” said Karen.
It’s taken a few days for it to sink in, but the windfall will change their lives. The family declared bankruptcy after losing a job three years ago. The money will help pay off the debts they own, and start to plan for the future.
“For the last few years, we’ve had our head barely above water or just below the water, and it feels like someone just reached in and pulled us out and has given us a sense of relief,” she said.
Karen says she can now replace her car after it was written off three weeks ago. Her sons, Ty and Jay, also have some ideas on how to use it.
“I’m like, that can do a lot—that’s like a vacation,” said Jay.
Karen says she couldn’t have survived the last few years without the help of friends—who she won’t be forgetting as she cashes in her winnings.
“We have an ability now to pay them back and help them back, like help them for helping us right? Some of them are in down and out situations, too.”
Watch below: Global’s Kevin Smith caught up with Karen DeMarsh, the winner of the $193,000 50/50 jackpot at the Stamps game on Friday.
With files from Erika Tucker
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