For the first time in nine years, Jamal Hinton and Wanda Dench, the strangers-turned-friends who became famous for their Thanksgiving tradition, were unable to celebrate together in person. Wanda, who accidentally invited Jamal to Thanksgiving in 2016 via text, revealed she is battling breast cancer. Following chemotherapy, her immunocompromised condition meant she had to stay home this year for health reasons.
Wanda shared her disappointment, stating, “I was looking so forward to meeting his family and having turkey with everybody, but we have to accept things the way they are.” However, the pair ensured they stayed connected by chatting over Instagram Live, allowing Wanda to meet Jamal’s family virtually.
The tradition began when Wanda mistakenly texted Jamal an invitation to Thanksgiving dinner. When he asked if he could still come, she famously replied, “Of course you can. That’s what grandmas do… feed everyone.” Since then, they have celebrated together annually, supporting each other through hardships, including the loss of Wanda’s husband in 2020.
Despite this year’s change, both are optimistic about continuing the tradition next year. Their story, which inspired the upcoming Netflix film The Thanksgiving Text, remains a testament to kindness and unexpected friendships.
