CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA: It is rarely revealed what the 'Jeopardy!' champs decide to do with the thousands of dollars they leave with from the game show's stage. But a recent champion did something admirable with his prize money from the show, and it deserves considerable recognition.
Taylor Clagett shared on the recent episode that using his one-day winnings, he plans to contribute to a non-profit organization called Taylor Anne Foundation. The organization works towards raising awareness, funds, and any other kind of required help related to pediatric cancer.
What is Taylor Clagett doing with his show winnings?
Clagett won $10,800 after becoming the champ for the Friday, July 21 episode. On being asked by host Ken Jennings during one of the interview rounds, he revealed that he would be contributing to a not-for-profit set up by his family member.
"Unfortunately, we lost my niece, Taylor Anne, to brain cancer last August," the champ shared, "So, since that time, her mom, my sister, has set up a non-profit called the Taylor Anne Foundation. It's an incredible cause and if I win some money I would love to contribute to that." Jennings responded to Clagett's thoughtful decision saying, "That would be great. Fighting cancer with your winnings. Well done." The official 'Jeopardy!' Twitter account shared the clip from the episode, praising the champ for his decision. The tweet said, "Taylor's donation is a great example of how to use #Jeopardy! winnings!"
What is Taylor Anne Foundation all about?
According to Clagett, the story of his niece's battle with brain cancer served as the impetus for the Taylor Anne Foundation. It acknowledges the dearth of knowledge regarding brain cancer, particularly pediatric brain cancer, which affects many youngsters. The organization seeks to close this information gap while simultaneously raising money for the necessary research to improve available treatments and hunt for a long-term cure for the illness.
"When Taylor was 6 years old, she was diagnosed with a rare but aggressive brain tumor, of which there is no cure nor treatments that have shown to be very effective," the website for the foundation reveals Taylor Anne's struggle, "Taylor underwent multiple rounds of radiation, surgeries, and two clinical trials all with a joyful spirit, and rarely complaining."
"Taylor inspired us all to be better people and make an impact on this world," the website description further read, "It is with her spirit that we started this Foundation to make a difference in the world of pediatric cancer with a dream to find a cure."
