"Wheel of Fortune" is a family tradition for Gena Laielli.
She grew up watching the game show with her mother and grandmother, and has continued the tradition with her own children.
"After dinner, we all watch 'Wheel of Fortune,'" she says.
But Thursday there will be a big difference when the family sits down to watch: Laielli will be one of the three contestants spinning the wheel.
"Never in a million years did I think that I would be on the show," she told BreakingAC.
But late last fall she decided to give it a try.
While her two kids were downstairs, Laielli put together a 60-second audition video speaking softly and wearing pajamas sans makeup.
She got an email in April saying they wanted a virtual audition, so Laielli met with a producer online.
"I guess they liked my energy and everything," she said, because she got another email invite.
This time, she faced off against other potential contestants.
In the summer, she got an email inviting her to Los Angeles.
"It was literally the best experience I ever had in my life," she said of the trip. "Everyone there was extremely nice and welcoming and so supportive."
And as for Pat Sajak and Vanna White?
"They look even better in person," she said.
The contestants were supportive, rooting each other on, Laielli said.
She also had her own cheering section with her husband, Atlantic City Firefighter Ron Laielli, and children 10-year-old Emma and 8-year-old Owen in the audience.
Gena is "sworn to secrecy" about the outcome. Even her young kids haven't let anything slip.
"I'm so proud of them," she said.
It seems, the feeling is mutual.
"They honestly think that I’m a really cool mom now because their mom is going to be on TV," she said.
Of course, they already knew she was good at the game.
"They always want me to be on their team when we play our 'Wheel of Fortune home game at home," she said.
But it's a lot different being in front of the camera than on your couch.
"The wheel is like 2,300 pounds," she said. "It is so heavy. You would never think that."
The family is having their own viewing party, complete with "Wheel" themed food and decorations.
"I’m actually more nervous to watch the show with my friends and my family than I was going there," Laielli said. "I don’t know how I’m going to sound on TV. I’m just really nervous to watch myself."
Her advice to anyone who also dreams of being on the show: "Take the leap, bring your energy and just go for it, because you never know."
As for the outcome, everyone watching will get to know by tuning in at 7:30 Thursday night.
