The long-anticipated winners list was released May 22, and while the grand prize went to a long time Calgary couple now residing in Ontario, their daughter was on-hand to receive the keys to the $2-million Movado II in Cranston.

“I guess I have possession for about three days,” joked Lisa Thompson of parents Bill and Lorraine Thorne’s winning address, adding she learned of the good fortune by calling a radio station to discover which prize they’d won. Lisa, her husband Trevor, and son, Steven, were more than happy to sub-in for the first look at the 5,015-square-foot French Country home that comes complete with a triple-car garage and indoor lap pool.

The Thornes, who got a cellphone walkthrough of the home at 172 Cranleigh Terrace S.E. via a call from their daughter, were slated to arrive back in Calgary to take possession for themselves a few days after the draw.

Meanwhile, Darcy Bye and his wife Kim Brooker are the lucky winners of the not-too-shabby neighbouring Nautica show home. Brooker and daughters Natasha and Katelynn were literally beaming with joy at the news of netting the 2,530-square-foot family address, also by Greenboro Estate Homes.

“I just can’t believe it. It’s amazing,” said Brooker of their win, adding the foursome would likely be moving into the home.

Also among grand-prize items awarded in the annual lottery were an early-bird prize of a 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK 350 and $50,000 in cash, as well as more than 6,700 other draws for electronics, trips, vehicles and other merchandise.

Proceeds of the 15th annual lottery presented by the Calgary Health Trust are earmarked for a virtual simulation centre, diagnostic imaging technology to improve cancer detection and staging, and mobile computerized medication carts at the Foothills Medical Centre.

Since its inception, the Foothills Hospital Home Lottery has raised nearly $30 million toward improvements and specialized programs in areas ranging from stroke research and trauma surgery, to cardiac care and neuroscience.

If you missed the chance to buy a ticket to win the Movado II—the most valued show home in the lottery’s history—don’t worry. You may have another chance to come home to the Cranston charmer, as the couple who won the $2-million turreted stunner overlooking the Bow River and Rockies are planning to put it up for sale and return to their Burlington, Ontario home.   NL