Fans are praying for “Jeopardy” host Alex Trebek after he revealed on Wednesday that he has been diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer.
Fox News reported that the 78-year-old game show host, who has hosted “Jeopardy” for 35 years, made the announcement in a video in which he directly addressed his fans. Trebek explained that he was only just diagnosed with cancer this week.
“Now normally, the prognosis for this is not very encouraging, but I’m going to fight this, and I’m going to keep working,” Trebek said. “And with the love and support of my family and friends and with the help of your prayers also, I plan to beat the low survival rate statistics for this disease.”
Despite the seriousness of the situation, Trebek made it clear that he still has his trademark sense of humor.
“Truth told, I have to! Because under the terms of my contract, I have to host ‘Jeopardy!’ for three more years!” he said. “So help me. Keep the faith and we’ll win. We’ll get it done. Thank you.”
Trebek also said that he wanted to make the announcement now so that he could be “open and transparent” with fans and so that false rumors of his health would not spread.
Stage 4 pancreatic cancer prognosis
The prognosis for stage 4 pancreatic cancer is quite serious, as the five year survival rate is only three percent, and the median survival rate is only two to six months. Stage 4 means that at this stage, the cancer has already spread from the pancreas to other parts of the body. There is no cure for pancreatic cancer at this stage, but quality of life can be improved with treatment, which Trebek plans to receive as he continues to host “Jeopardy.”
Messages of prayers and support have already been pouring in on social media for Trebek from former contestants and fans alike:
I’ve said this before but Alex Trebek is in a way the last Cronkite: authoritative, reassuring TV voice you hear every night, almost to the point of ritual.
— Ken Jennings (@KenJennings) March 6, 2019
God Bless you Alex Trebek and anyone else who is Fighting Cancer. “Don’t just keep the Faith.. Share the Faith!” Proverbs 3:5&6…
— Mr. T (@MrT) March 7, 2019
The Sajak family is deeply saddened to hear of Alex Trebek’s struggle with cancer. Our hearts go out to him and his family. But there is no one I know who is stronger and more determined, and I would never bet against him. We, and the entire country, are pulling for you, Alex.
— Pat Sajak (@patsajak) March 6, 2019
The clue: “He has the strength and determination to beat his cancer diagnosis.” The response: “Who is Alex Trebek?” My family and I are sending love and tons of healing prayers to you Alex. pic.twitter.com/VTA435hHel
— Vanna White (@TheVannaWhite) March 7, 2019
Oh my God. If anyone can beat this, you can. Sending heartfelt good thoughts and best wishes for a speedy and full recovery. We love you, Uncle Alex! https://t.co/D9PqihFJUh
— Brad Rutter (@bradrutter) March 6, 2019
Please keep Alex Trebek in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
“I’m going to fight this.” “Jeopardy!” host Alex Trebek reveals he has stage 4 pancreatic cancer pic.twitter.com/ae1TvwhGjb
— TODAY (@TODAYshow) March 7, 2019
Let’s all say a prayer for Alex Trebek that he may beat this ugly diagnosis.
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