A man who made a promise to his best mate to split a lottery jackpot, if he ever won, has made good on the vow almost thirty years later by sharing his whopping $22 million (£17m) prize.
homas Cook and pal Joseph Feeney shook hands and agreed to split any big win back in 1992. Proving the world isn’t all bad, Thomas kept his end of the deal after scooping the top prize in the Wisconsin State Lottery earlier this year.
Thomas said he was eating breakfast while checking his numbers and couldn’t believe what he was seeing, so handed the ticket over to his wife to check.
Talking about his big win, Thomas said: “It was quite an experience when I read those first two or three numbers. I kind of froze and handed them to [his wife] and she froze.”
Thomas then went on to explain that he and Joseph had been playing the draw every week since it began and had always said they would split a jackpot but ‘never really thought’ they would win.
After realising he’d won, Thomas got to break the good news to his mate, telling him he’d become a millionaire overnight.
Joseph said that when Thomas told him, his first reaction was: “Are you jerking my bobber?” which, let’s be honest, makes this whole heartwarming story even more adorable.
The pair say they haven’t decided what they’ll do with their share of the jackpot just yet, but have said they will now be able to enjoy a very comfortable retirement.
Thomas went on to say that he’s looking forward to being able to spend more time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He added: “We can pursue what we feel comfortable with. I can’t think of a better way to retire.”
They’ve also said they will upgrade the Chrysler PT Cruiser they currently use to take road trips in to something a little fancier and luxurious.
And just when I thought I couldn’t have any more admiration for our man Thomas, speaking about upholding the generous promise, he said simply: “A handshake is a handshake.” What a guy.
