What to Know Jackie and Rande, of Long Branch, have faced many challenges over the years -- the worst was losing their daughter

The couple, married 17 years, has been caring for their three grandchildren since their daughter died

They won a $1 million second-tier Mega Millions prize in the March 31 drawing, and hope it's a sign their luck is finally turning around

A New Jersey husband and wife who have been caring for their three young grandchildren since their daughter tragically died of lupus have a million new reasons to smile.

The Long Branch couple, identified only by their first names -- Rande and Jackie -- accepted the $1 million second-tier prize from the March 31 Mega Millions drawing, the New Jersey Lottery announced Tuesday.

Rande and Jackie, married for 17 years, bought the ticket at Long Branch Convenience on Broadway. It matched all five of the white balls drawn.

Smiling through her tears, Jackie said, "This will be the beginning of good fortune to our family."

The couple said they'll first put some money toward immediate bills and use the rest to secure the future of their grandkids.

Their friend, Debbie, who drove them to lottery headquarters to accept the prize, said there is no couple more deserving.

"They are the most deserving people in New Jersey," she said. "They have helped so many other people in their times of need and now it is their turn to receive this very necessary blessing."