I'd create an exit plan so every freeloader, huckster, and gawker in the world couldn't find me. That probably involves relocating, changing my mailing address, and doing a few more things to cover my tracks so I can't be easily stalked. Then, stepping forward to collect the money. Friends and family would have plenty of notification and all of the new contact info.
It might be worthwhile to talk to an ex-FBI type about how they do the witness relocation program. Not that I'd need/want something that extreme, but it would be good to eliminate about 99% of the drive-by gawkers.