13 January 2024 , 07:00
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Winning the lottery is a life-changing moment for most of those lucky enough to match their numbers, but one couple was determined to stay true to their roots after winning $61million.
Dave and Erica Harrig, from Gretna, Nebraska, won a whopping $61million (£47.8million) on the Powerball. While winning the lottery can seem like a dream for some, for others it can quickly turn into a nightmare and ultimately result in tragedy.
But Dave and Erica's mission to stick to their values meant they became one of the more successful lottery-winning couples. The couple live in a community on the outskirts of Omaha, Nebraska, where Dave works as a volunteer firefighter after their win.
With their huge jackpot winnings, Dave and Erica decided not to splash out as much as some other winners may. They allowed themselves to buy a new home, some vintage vehicles and went on a few ocean cruises after they quit their jobs.
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While there have been a few luxuries, such as quitting their jobs, going on cruises and buying a new house, the Harrigs live much the same as they did before their win (Getty Images)A comfortable life with some small luxuries, but nothing too flashy. Nine years after their win, they live pretty much the same as they always have. They've remained in their community, kept up with church, family and friends, and have taught their children to work hard to make a living - despite any financial windfall that may come their way.
Dave admitted after their win that hitting the jackpot "can really accentuate your character and any addictions". The former Air Force aircraft maintenance worker decided to use his free time to volunteer for the local fire department, and his family has even helped fund a new firefighting museum in the couple's hometown.
"We have nicer things, a bigger house, and more than we ever had in the past," he reflected. "But we are the same, and my wife and I keep each other in check."
Dave and Erica focused on their family and the charities they chose to support (Getty Images)Of course, such a big win came with notoriety in the community, and the family were not only inundated with requests for help, but rumours that circulated, especially among the school two of their children attended. There were allegations Dave had a secret girlfriend who was a lawyer and that Erica had run away with a doctor, completely false rumours.
Then there were letters, the Harrig family was inundated with letters from those down on their luck, hoping for some financial aid. From sick children to lost jobs, and burned-out homes. But, the couple were aware their generosity would have to come with some limits.
Dave said they ignored them and focused on their own families and the charities they wanted to help. Through it all, Dave said he was grateful to have had his family by his side, saying: "We're still learning, but it has helped to stay working together as a team."
His key piece of advice for those who win big on the lottery is to invest. Dave explained the best thing to do is to seek out help from a national investment advisor rather than a local advisor and to avoid those who try to sell financial products.