SUDBURY -- A 31-year-old mother of two from northern Ontario has received a 'life-changing' windfall after winning the top prize in a scratch ticket game.

Sarah-Lynn Pearse of Elliot Lake has won $250,000 playing the OLG Instant Crossword Deluxe game, #2173.

She was surrounded at home by her friends when she scratched herself to winning the top prize.

"When I announced I won $250,000, my friends jumped up and down in excitement, but quietly – as not to wake the baby," said Pearse.

She is a custodian and plans to use the money to buy a home and help her loved ones.

"I'm feeling lots of excitement," said Pearse. "This is life-changing, for sure."

She bought her winning ticket at Hillside Shop and Save on Hillside Drive in Elliot Lake.

People picking up their winnings at the prize centre in Toronto are required to wear a face mask as required by the temporary by-law that mandates them in indoor public spaces.

In-person pick up for winnings of $10,000 or more at OLG are allowed by appointment only.