A 38-year-old Filipina mom who resides in Sharjah has taken home AED 500,000 in the 16th live weekly Mahzooz draw. Catherine matched five out of six numbers to split the AED 1,000,000 second prize with Farhan who hails from Pakistan.
For Catherine, winning big with Mahzooz was an extremely emotional moment, especially with the tragedy she’s been through.
“I participated on 8th March, the anniversary of my son’s death. That day I had a feeling I couldn’t understand. I just knew something big was going to happen.”
Catherine tragically lost her infant son a few years ago to a rare disease called biliary atresia.
“It’s a liver disease that requires a transplant. I was actually a donor for my baby but his condition became worse and unfortunately he didn’t make it,” recalled the Filipina expat.
Catherine, who is married and has two other children, looked to her family when choosing her numbers for the 16th live weekly Mahzooz draw. Her story behind matching five out of the six winning numbers, which were 3, 8, 19, 24, 25 and 47, is special in its own right.
“The numbers I chose are all related to us. 3 is my eldest son’s birthday, 8 is the anniversary of the death of my second son, 19 is my youngest son’s birthday, 24 is my birthday and 25 appeared in my dreams,” said Catherine.
As for the winnings, Catherine sees them as a blessing that she plans to share with others.
“This money will be spread out – we will give a portion to the church, donate to biliary atresia patients, give some to my siblings and start a business of our own,” said Catherine.
“This was an answer to our prayers, and I know that our late son is thinking of us.”
Cathrine split the AED 1,000,000 second prize with Farhan, a 43-year old Abu Dhabi resident who has been a regular Mahzooz participant since the beginning but never expected a win this big.
“When I got the email, I was surprised,” said Farhan. “I was not expecting this kind of news. I am definitely very happy about it.”
A married father, Farhan plans to use his winnings to take care of his family.
“This money gives us new possibilities. We don’t have to worry about loans or debts, we can put some aside for our kids’ education, and we have the flexibility to build a house back in Karachi,” said Farhan.
“I’m very grateful to Mahzooz. These draws are a great initiative and change the lives of so many people, not just the winners. Thank you!” concluded Farhan.
For those who missed out on last week’s live draw, entrants can participate in Mahzooz by registering via www.mahzooz.ae and purchasing Al Emarat bottles of water. Each bottle of water purchased (for AED 35) provides eligibility for one line in the draw and the donation is channelled through Mahzooz’s community partners to hydrate those in need.
The next draw will be held as scheduled on Saturday 20 March 2021 at 9:00pm UAE time. Mahzooz is inclusive to all who are eligible.