CHICAGO – The Lotto jackpot on Saturday, Jan. 3 was one of the largest amounts in recent years – $25.5 million. One lucky winner from Illinois, who chooses to remain anonymous, matched all six numbers and cashed in on a profitable New Year.

The winner began playing the Lottery last summer and chose numbers based on her two children’s birthdays. Even though she only spent a few dollars a week playing the Illinois Lottery, she was sure that her efforts would pay off someday.

On Monday morning the winner checked her Lotto ticket and realized she was the big winner. “I could hardly believe what I was seeing. I was, and still am, in shock!”

“Before today, the most I had won was $25 playing the ‘Win for Life’ instant ticket. I actually bought my winning Lotto ticket from that prize amount,” she explained.

Although she doesn’t have any big plans for her winnings just yet, she does intend to use the money to save for her children’s future.

“The Illinois Lottery is thrilled to know that they have changed someone’s life and what great timing with the beginning of a New Year,” said Jodie Winnett, acting superintendent for the Illinois Lottery. “We share in the winner’s excitement and wish her all the best in 2009.”

Wadsworth Mobil, located at 15679 West Wadsworth Road in Wadsworth, Ill., sold the winning ticket and will receive a 1 percent bonus, or $255,000, for selling the winning ticket.