Matt Cole, 41, and Courtney Cockerton, 27, from Horsham, have won £1 million on the EuroMillions just weeks after their five-month-old son Rupert underwent a five-hour operation to repair a cleft lip and palate. The couple described the past few months as “really difficult” as they balanced hospital appointments at Evelina London Children’s Hospital with caring for Rupert and his two-and-a-half-year-old sister Ivy.
From Hospital Appointments to Disney Dreams
Instead of continuing regular medical trips, the family is now planning a dream holiday to Disneyland Paris. Matt, a quality assurance tester in insurance, said: “It’s been a really difficult few months. We knew before Rupert was born that he would need surgery, but nothing can truly prepare you for seeing your baby go through a five-hour operation at such a young age and having to stay in hospital overnight.”
Courtney added: “Ivy is only two and a half, but she’s been absolutely brilliant. She’s taken everything in her stride and is so caring towards Rupert. We’ve always dreamt of taking her to Disneyland Paris and seeing her face light up when she meets her favourite characters. Now, thanks to this incredible win, that’s the first thing on our list.”
Life-Changing Win Brings Security
Matt won the £1 million prize after matching the UK Millionaire Maker code on a Lucky Dip ticket. He said: “Through everything that has been happening, I still managed to find time to buy a EuroMillions Lucky Dip ticket. I’m so glad I did - I could never have imagined what would happen next. When I realised I’d won £1M, I genuinely couldn’t believe it. I checked it over and over again. Even now it still hasn’t properly sunk in.”
The couple plans to use the winnings to buy a new home and a new car, providing greater security for their family. Matt said: “Our family and friends have been just as shocked as we are about the win, but they’re absolutely over the moon for us. After everything we’ve been through recently, it feels like we’ve had a really lucky break.”
Support from NHS and National Lottery
The couple praised the NHS staff for their support during Rupert’s treatment. Courtney said: “The support we’ve received from NHS staff has been amazing and we’re so grateful for everything they’ve done for us.” Dean O’Field, Winner Advisor at Allwyn, operator of The National Lottery, said: “Matt, Courtney, Rupert and Ivy are such a wonderful family, and I’m absolutely delighted for them. After what has been a difficult few months, it’s fantastic to see them win this incredible amount of money and see them start making some lovely plans together as a family. It really goes to show, it could be you!”
