In Japan, the crane is a mystical creature that is believed to live for 1,000 years, making it a representation of good fortune and hope. Traditionally, the folding of 1,000 origami cranes is believed to result in one’s wish coming true. The symbolic gesture has become one of hope and healing during challenging times.
Following Alex Trebek’s pancreatic cancer diagnosis, the students of Pomfret Community School in Pomfret Center, Connecticut, gifted him with 1,000 origami cranes. Alex and the entire Jeopardy! family find the same inspiration in the multiple strings of cranes now proudly flying in their new home on Stage 10.