Contestant Blogs

Leah P.

POSTED 3-16

Once settled in the yellow position, the cameras rolled, Pat and Vanna arrived, and it was time for the first Toss-Up. When Pat began the intros, I nervously stated that I was married for 10 years, had 2 daughters and an adopted rescue dog who we call "Allie-girl." The second Toss-Up started and I quickly buzzed in for my first win! Honestly, from here on the puzzles are all a blur but I remember solving the first one while winning the coveted Million Dollar Wedge on my second spin! The third contestant solved the next puzzle and passed my total up by around a thousand dollars. I remember thinking that I need to make sure I earn enough so I can take the prized Million Dollar Wedge with me to the Bonus Round.

At some point, I realized I was working on a "Prize Puzzle," so I solved, winning a trip to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico a beautiful destination I had never visited! I'll admit, at this point I was in shock and completely oblivious to how much money I had banked. I just smiled, clapped and tried to remain composed while Pat announced my total at the end of each round. The final puzzle came and for some strange reason I decided to keep spinning after I knew the puzzle, almost landing on Bankrupt and losing the Million Dollar Wedge! I hurriedly called a letter and then realized I was ahead enough that didn't need to keep spinning. However, the bell rang and it was time for Pat to give the Final Spin. With his well-skilled "golden arm" he landed on the $5,000 wedge! I quickly called "C," realizing two were left in the puzzle gaining an additional $12,000 (I never got a chance to say this, so "Thanks, Pat!") I was completely amazed when it was over and Pat announced my winning total of $34,150, with the rare Million Dollar Wedge coming with me to the Bonus Round! I couldn't believe it! I have never been so close to winning $1,000,000, and immediately thought the shuttle driver might be on to something!

I quickly put on my shoes and was guided over to where the bonus wheel was rolled in, plugged in, and screwed down into the floor. Pat came over and I whispered for him to get the confetti ready! He chuckled and cameras starting rolling. Pat asked who the guy was waving in the audience and joked that we should make him feel uncomfortable a little longer, as my handsome husband continued to wave in shock with the Million Dollar Wedge! I spun the bonus wheel, handed Pat the "W" envelope, and began the "Phrase" puzzle. After being given two letters to help me solve only the first word, I tried to guess the last four-letter word, but it was just too tough. Luckily it wasn't the $1,000,000 envelope and I was still blessed with my grand total cash and prizes of $34,150! I am very thankful that Wheel of Fortune granted me the experience of a lifetime, an opportunity to pay off debt, even provide pet food gift card for my dog, and take a warm vacation! What amazing accomplishments while fulfilling a lifelong goal!