Alex Trebek's Family Has Bittersweet Way To Honor Late 'Jeopardy' Host's Life
Alex Trebek's family still endures the pain as they continue to honor the late host's legacy over a year after his death.
Months before Trebek's second death anniversary, his wife Jean and their children - Emily, Nicky, and Matthew - marked what would have been the couple's 32nd wedding anniversary.
As part of their traditions, they extended their celebration by helping the charity close to their hearts, the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.
To raise money to help the patients diagnosed with the dreaded type of cancer, Trebek's family joined the PanCAN's Purple Stride Walk & Run at the Los Angeles Zoo. Although they have been supporting the organization for years, it is reportedly a bittersweet moment for them.
In an interview with PEOPLE, Jean expressed how poignant it is since the group works for the people who have the same disease that led to Trebek's death.
"It's a little bittersweet because this was the disease that took Alex's human life. But, I also know what it pulled from him. His courage, his strength and that was what Alex, I know, wants to be remembered for," she said.
The late "Jeopardy!" host revealed his stage IV pancreatic cancer diagnosis in 2019. At that time, he showed his positive side as he reportedly still had to host Jeopardy! for three more years. The prognosis was not good, but he lifted himself and proclaimed he would fight it.
Unfortunately, Trebek was not able to complete his contract as he eventually died on Nov. 8, 2020, at the age of 80.
Alex Trebek's Family To Continue the Fight
While Trebek is no longer there after losing his battle, his family is now determined to continue fighting for others to keep his legacy burning.
Nicky, who raised more than $20,000 for the charity, said that the family would always be involved with PanCAN to make a difference and impact to the patients.
She also tries keeping Trebek's memories alive by working on "Jeopardy!" which her father hosted for 37 seasons.
"Also, Hope of the Valley was another thing that was very close to dad's heart and still close to Jean's heart. The Trebek Center's going to be opening with 107 beds for homeless people all over the San Fernando Valley. That was something that he really, really wanted to see come to fruition. So I have some friends that want to work at the Trebek Center," she went on.
PanCAN also expressed their gratitude toward the Trebeks, saying that they have been assisting the organization to help other people.
