Trent Girone enjoyed his experience on the game show although he didn't end up winning, and thanks host Pat Sajak 'for his assistance.'
- May 2, 2014
AceShowbiz - For the first time ever, "Wheel of Fortune" featured a special needs contestant. Trent Girone, who has both Tourettes and Aspergers Syndrome, participated in the April 30 episode of the game show.
The Peoria, Ariz. resident, who has watched the show since 2 years old, correctly named a category that was no longer featured on the show, Megaword, when asked by host Pat Sajak. The 21, who is a self-described "Wheel of Fortune" fanatic, ended up losing after hitting the Bankrupt slot twice.
In a blog post on the show's website, Girone wrote, "I want to thank all of the contestant staff for taking the time to help me, and would like to thank Pat Sajak for his assistance, as well." He added, "I have some physical challenges that they were aware of and they made sure I was safe and comfortable."
Girone enjoyed the experience although he didn't win, saying, "My best advice to future contestants is to relax and have a good time. It is a lot of fun, whether you win big or not. That is my number one guarantee."
Girone said he prepared for the show by watching Saturday morning reruns of last season's episodes. The episode was taped back in February.
