July 01, 2010 -- What began as a typical, average day for 27-year old Andre Bryant of Stamford ended as nothing short of spectacular. After purchasing a Win for Life, 17th Edition instant ticket from a CT Lottery retailer in Stamford, Bryant stopped at a local barbershop to visit some friends. While there, he scratched the ticket, revealing a number match, and the word WIN in the prize area. I stopped right there, because I knew I was a winner, Bryant explained to Lottery officials. Taking a moment to collect himself, Bryant then continued to scratch the remainder of his ticket, revealing the complete phrase, WIN FOR LIFE, that is needed to win the games top prize a mind-boggling $5,000 a month, every month for the rest of his life, with a guaranteed minimum payout of $1 million. That's when the excitement came, and I started shouting, I won! I won! Bryant explained to Lottery officials.

What is most exciting about this win is that it comes less than a week from another big Win for Life, 16th Edition winner, sisters-in-law Jean Fappiano of West Haven and Barbara Fappiano of North Port, Florida, who are splitting their $5,000 a month prize for the rest of their lives.

Connecticut's Lottery players embrace our for life games, both instant and draw style, said Anne M. Noble, President and CEO of the CT Lottery. We offer two instant games, Win for Life and Set for Life. A for life win is very exciting, a life-altering experience in an instant, added Noble.

On Tuesday, Bryant and his family arrived at Lottery headquarters in Rocky Hill where he was presented with the first $5,000 a month for life prize checks ($3,426 after taxes). When asked of his plans for such an unexpected windfall, Bryant replied, Its still sinking in; Im not sure of any plans just yet. Im just happy and excited.

Bryant's top prize winning Win for Life, 17th Edition ticket was purchased at Richmond Hill Mini Mart, located on Richmond Hill in Stamford. For selling the winning ticket, Richmond Hill Mini Mart will receive a $10,000 bonus check from the CT Lottery.

The current Win for Life series, which was introduced into the CT Lottery portfolio in January 1998, has a top prize of $5,000 a month for life with a guaranteed minimum payout of at least $1 million.