Lottery Winners Share Hard Lessons Ahead of $1.8 Billion Powerball Drawing NYT | Top Stories By: Mark Walker 7 September 2025 at 03:27 Past jackpot winners recall fortunes found, mistakes made and advice for those holding a lucky ticket. © Dave Sanders for The New York TimesSome last lottery winners have turned over their fortune to a financial adviser to manage. Others have seen their money fritter away on expensive purchases.