Catching Up with Winners: Jon Cada Had a Great Friday, Not a "Good" Friday!
Published Tuesday, September 17, 2024
Jon Cada of Blind River is the winner of the March 50/50 Grand Prize of $1,740,910.
When Jon Cada of Blind River, Ontario, received the life-changing call in March 2023 that he had won the Thunder Bay 50/50 grand prize of $1.74 million, it was, as Jon put it, "a Great Friday, not just a Good Friday." Now, a few months after his big win, Jon is still grateful, but his focus remains grounded in the things that matter most: family, friends, and the positive impact the lottery has on healthcare in Northwestern Ontario.
Since winning the March 50/50, Jon has been busy helping out the ones he loves, a gesture he says is just as rewarding as the money itself. "For me, as rewarding as this money has been, it hasn't changed who I am. It also hasn't changed what I do," Jon shared.
Jon, who serves as an Economic Development Officer in Mississauga First Nation, continues to support the Thunder Bay 50/50 by purchasing tickets every month. Despite already having won, Jon sees the lottery as more than a game of chance, but a meaningful way to contribute to better healthcare. "I never had any expectations of winning. To me, it is a donation, and it's heartwarming to see where the money goes," he says, reflecting on the impact of the funds raised.
The Thunder Bay 50/50 has raised millions to support the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, and Jon is one of many winners who have seen firsthand how the funds help provide vital equipment and services for local hospitals. "It's helped a lot of people realize that this is real; you can win, even if you don't think you can. But more than that, it's a way to ensure our hospitals can deliver the high-quality, closer-to-home care we all deserve," Jon adds.
With his winnings, Jon purchased a new set of wheels and a trailer and has been spending time exploring the North Shore with his father. But perhaps most importantly, he remains committed to educating others about the power of giving. "I'm happy to see that good things are happening, and I'll continue to spread the word about how much the 50/50 can support," he says.
For Jon Cada, the Thunder Bay 50/50 hasn't just been a stroke of luck; it's been an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of those around him and in the communities that rely on the hospital lottery's support. "It's truly a win-win, and I'm happy to be a part of it."