Ashlee O.

When I received the news that I would be a contestant on the show, I couldn't contain my excitement and pure joy. I remember running around my house, overwhelmed by the thrill of the opportunity. It was a special moment because it allowed my husband and I to continue a cherished family tradition – watching Wheel of Fortune almost nightly. This shared experience connected us with my parents and grandparents, and the nostalgia was heartwarming.

However, amidst the exhilaration, there were bittersweet emotions. I dearly wished that my mother, father, and grandparents were still with us to share in this momentous occasion in person. Their absence was deeply felt, and I could sense their presence as my heavenly angels, guiding me through the challenges of the puzzle board.

Adding to the emotional whirlwind was the underlying anxiety stemming from my 2017 diagnosis of a rare autoimmune condition called Myasthenia Gravis. At times, my symptoms would unexpectedly flare up, causing double vision and drooping eyelids, which threatened to hinder my ability to see and participate fully. But I persevered, with unwavering faith, continually prayed for guidance and discernment. This journey, with its highs and lows, was a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. I am grateful for the experience and the opportunity to share it with all of you.