Still buying tickets: How a $1.3B lottery win changed one man's life

One year after winning Oregon's largest lottery jackpot, Cheng "Charlie" Saephan still plays the lottery weekly, lives in Portland, and focuses on what matters most - health and family.

From praying for a miracle to becoming one

When Charlie Saephan placed a piece of paper with Powerball numbers under his pillow in April 2024, he wasn't just dreaming of wealth. Battling cancer and worried about his young children, he prayed for divine intervention.

Saephan recalled, "I prayed to God to help me. My kids are young, and I'm not that healthy."

His prayers were answered when his ticket matched all numbers in the April 6, 2024 drawing, winning the fourth-largest Powerball jackpot in history - $1.3 billion. Saephan split the winnings with his wife, Duanpen, and friend Laiza Chao, who had contributed $100 toward ticket purchases.

Life one year later: subtle changes, big impact

Despite his newfound wealth, Saephan's lifestyle remains remarkably grounded. He stays home to greet his children after school and maintains a simple daily routine. The biggest changes? A new family home and a rare metallic neon Lamborghini purchased from Canada.

"I don't worry about money now," he said. "I've got my family set up."

His health remains his priority. In the year since winning, Saephan has undergone two surgeries and continues fighting his cancer diagnosis. 

Investing in community

Beyond personal purchases, Saephan has made strategic investments in his community. He purchased east-side apartments as investment properties and financially backed a growing local Thai restaurant group.

These investments reflect his commitment to supporting the community where he's lived for 30 years since immigrating from Laos.

Celebrity status and staying grounded

The historic win thrust the private man into an unexpected spotlight. News of his heartwarming story spread globally, leading to occasional public recognition.

At a Portland Trail Blazers game, a stranger approached him, saying, "I saw you on the news. You look like the guy who won the lottery."

Still feeling lucky

Perhaps most surprisingly, Saephan continues playing the lottery, purchasing Powerball and Megabucks tickets weekly. His belief in possibility remains unshaken. He genuinely thinks he could win again.

This optimism mirrors his approach to life: using good fortune to support family and community while maintaining hope for the future.

Oregon's biggest winner

Before Saephan's win, Oregon's largest Powerball prize was $340 million in 2005. His $1.3 billion jackpot shattered records and benefited more than just the winners. The retailer received a $100,000 bonus, and approximately one-third of Powerball sales returned to state programs supporting education, veterans, parks, and economic development.

Since 1985, the Oregon Lottery has generated over $16.5 billion for state programs - a winning ticket for all Oregonians.