After years of joining the cause to fight childhood cancer, a Benton woman was at a loss for words when WPSD Local 6’s Mychaela Bruner called her with news that she had won the St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway.
When Jackie Green received the phone call Sunday afternoon, she said, “I just couldn’t believe it. I’ve bought a ticket every year for as long as they’ve been doing the dream home giveaway. I never dreamed I would win,” said Green.
Green says the most valuable thing is not the home, but to know that her donation went toward healing and finding a cure for those suffering from childhood cancer. She says seeing the children in the commercials leading up to the dream home giveaway really grabs her heart. “It’s one charity where you know your money is going to a good cause,” said Green.
Green has lived in Marshall County her entire life. She retired after nearly twenty-eight years of service as the secretary of the Marshall County School Board. Green has one daughter and three grandchildren all of Marshall County. She is a member of Central Church of Christ in Benton.
“Why me?” Green questioned. “Why was I the one to win such a beautiful home.” Green says the home has so many modern appliances that she had no idea even existed. She pointed out that the kitchen faucet impressed her because all it takes is a touch of your hand and the water comes on.
“I have a lot of decisions to make in the coming days, that’s for sure,” said Green. At this point, Green says she wants to stay in the dream home for three or four days just to experience such a large home. “It would make me feel like cinderella,” said Green.
As far as moving into the new home, Green has lived in the same Benton neighborhood for nearly fifty-eight years. She says it’s unlikely she’ll be moving into the new home. “I’m used to this and this is my home,” Green said.
“I feel truly blessed. It’s so exciting and as for the next few days, the reality is still sinking in. It’s certainly a once in a lifetime thing for me,” Green said.
Green says she will absolutely be buying a ticket for next year’s drawing and she encourages her friends, neighbors and the community to buy tickets. “If I can win, anyone can win. I advise everyone to donate to such a good cause and buy a ticket next year,” said Green.
(Photo Credit: WPSD Local 6)