The $1.3 billion Powerball jackpot was won by Cheng “Charlie” Saephan, an immigrant from Laos who has been battling cancer for eight years. Along with his wife and a friend, they decided to split the prize evenly, taking a lump sum payment of $422 million after taxes. Saephan expressed his relief that he can now provide for his family and focus on his health by finding a good doctor. As a cancer patient, he had been concerned about how he would spend the money and how long he would live.
Saephan, who was born in Laos and moved to the U.S. in 1994, is a member of the Iu Mien ethnic group, originating from Southeast Asia. Many Iu Mein families fled to Thailand during and after the Vietnam War and eventually settled in the U.S. Saephan has lived in Portland for 30 years, graduating from high school in 1996 and working as a machinist for an aerospace company. He had prayed for a win, hoping to secure his family’s future before his health worsened.
Prior to the drawing, Saephan wrote down numbers for the game on a piece of paper and kept it under his pillow, hoping for a win that would allow him to provide for his family before his time runs out. The winning ticket was sold at a Plaid Pantry convenience store in Portland, and after the win was announced, Saephan expressed his gratitude for the support and assistance he had received throughout his journey.
The $1.3 billion prize is the fourth largest Powerball jackpot in history and the eighth largest among all U.S. jackpot games. Winners typically have a year to claim their prize, but under Oregon law, most lottery players cannot remain anonymous. The jackpot’s cash value before taxes was $621 million, and the prize is subject to both federal and state taxes in Oregon. Saephan’s win is a significant relief for him and his family, giving them financial security and peace of mind, particularly in the face of his ongoing battle with cancer.
Overall, Saephan’s win is a heartwarming story of triumph over adversity, giving hope to those facing similar struggles. His journey from Laos to the U.S., his battle with cancer, and his eventual win of the massive jackpot highlight the unpredictability and generosity of life’s fortunes. The support of his wife, friend, and community, as well as his faith and determination, all played a role in his incredible win, ensuring a brighter future for him and his loved ones.
