Life can change in an instant, and Mike Weirsky is a remarkable example. In 2019, the New Jersey resident won a $273 million Mega Millions jackpot, just a short time after the end of his 15-year marriage. Before his life-changing win, Weirsky had struggled financially for years, working a series of jobs and facing periods of unemployment that reportedly placed significant strain on his relationship.

Following his divorce from Eileen Murray, court records indicated that Murray would pay alimony for a limited period because of Weirsky’s financial circumstances. At the time, few could have imagined how dramatically his fortunes were about to change. While stopping at a convenience store, Weirsky accidentally left his lottery tickets on the counter. After realizing his mistake, he rushed back and found that another customer had safely handed them to the cashier—a simple act of honesty that ensured he didn’t lose what would become one of the biggest prizes in Mega Millions history.

When the winning numbers were announced, Weirsky discovered he had matched all six numbers to claim the $273 million jackpot. He later chose the lump-sum cash option, receiving approximately $162.5 million before taxes. The win instantly transformed his financial future, allowing him to pay off debts, purchase a home and vehicles, and help family members.