A man from western P.E.I. who lost his home in a fire earlier this summer has surprisingly won a raffle for a new cottage. Daniel Drouin from Alberton acknowledges the incredible stroke of luck, especially given the timing of the win.
Drouin expressed his gratitude, stating that winning the new house is truly life-changing, particularly considering the recent challenges his family has faced. Out of approximately 14,000 tickets sold for the draw, Drouin was selected as the grand prize winner, with the option to choose between the pre-fabricated cottage or $150,000.
Before the fire incident, Drouin, a musician, had purchased a $50 raffle ticket for the Big Brothers, Big Sisters draw. Initially hesitant, he was encouraged by his girlfriend to participate. The moment Drouin was informed of his win by Myron Yates, the executive director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Prince Edward Island, was captured in a video shared by the organization.
Despite initially thinking it might be a prank call, Drouin was assured by Yates that it was indeed real. Overwhelmed by the news, Drouin expressed his shock and disbelief, emphasizing the surreal nature of the situation.
The cottage prize does not include land, leaving Drouin contemplating where to place it. Currently living separately from his two children, Drouin sees the cottage as an opportunity for his family to reunite, as they have been staying with friends and relatives following the fire.
Having to face the reality of his home being torn down, Drouin is looking forward to visiting Charlottetown to view his new cottage and handle necessary paperwork. For him, it signifies a fresh start not just for himself but also for his children, bringing the family back together in a new beginning.