For more than two weeks, Wade Haskett of Waynesville, NC, carried around a lottery ticket worth $118, 180 while thinking about the cost of home improvements. Haskett, a part-time detention officer for the Haywood County Sheriff’s Department, said he regularly plays Carolina Cash 5 as well as Powerball and Mega Millions, but had not checked his ticket from the November 6 drawing until November 25. Haskett said he finally pulled out the ticket from his wallet to double check the numbers after his wife told him that the Ashville TV station reported someone bought a winning ticket at a local convenience store but had not claimed the prize.

“I didn’t really expect to win anything,” said Haskett. “I figured it was going to be like it usually was; someone else winning it.” Haskett said he and his wife plan to use their winnings for those home improvements like a new roof, and to help their adult children and perhaps travel as well. “I know it is not a big amount, but it is more than I had,” Haskett said. “I am just thankful I won it. It came at a good time.”