Life After a Lottery Win: From Riches to Redemption
In 2005, Roger and Lara Griffiths’ lives changed dramatically when they celebrated their staggering £1.8 million lottery win with a bottle of Champagne. A decade later, their world took a nosedive, both personally and financially. Here’s their story in simple terms.
The Highs and Lows
Ten years after their 2013 divorce, Lara, a former school teacher, now runs a tattoo parlour and make-up studio from her garden shed, working seven days a week. She says, “I spend all my money on my two kids, and I’m not complaining about that. I’ve got a nice life.”
The Heartbreak
Their marriage unraveled in 2011 when Lara discovered incriminating emails on Roger’s computer, hinting at an affair. Roger denies having cheated but admits he had fallen “out of love.” Lara says she was devastated, especially with two young daughters in tow.
The Early Days of Fortune
Before the lottery win, Lara earned £40,000 annually as a teacher, and Roger’s income was similar. When they won, it took time for the happy feeling to sink in, but they decided to leave their jobs and pursue new dreams.
Misunderstood Spending
Rumors swirled about their extravagant spending on cars and homes, but Lara insists they didn’t splash as much as reported. “The cars were always second-hand. We had a mortgage on the house. And we had one holiday in Dubai.”
Financial Missteps
The couple struggled to make sound financial choices and felt ill-equipped to manage their newfound wealth. The 2008 financial crisis worsened their situation, leading to bailiffs showing up for debts they didn’t know about.
Divorce and Dark Times
Roger made a grave error by falling behind on mortgage payments, leading to a property repossession. Stories circulated about Lara’s lavish spending and plastic surgery, which she denies. Their divorce was finalized on Christmas Eve in 2013.
Rebuilding and Reflecting
Lara’s adopted mother provided crucial support, helping with her business and kids. While Lara insists winning the lottery didn’t ruin her life, she advises other young winners to be cautious and seek wise financial advice.
In a statement, Roger admits his mistakes but says leaving Lara was necessary for his well-being and their children’s. Their story serves as a cautionary tale about the rollercoaster of fortune and the importance of financial responsibility.