‘Thanksgiving Grandma’ joins wrong friend from afar to create more lasting memories

(Gray News) – After a happy accident nearly a decade ago, a special Thanksgiving tradition will continue a little differently this year.

Wanda Dench and Jamal Hinton, the so-called “Grandmas of Thanksgiving,” will come together remotely to share the holiday once again.

“I am excited to announce that I will be hosting Thanksgiving for Wanda and I this year,” Hinton said. Publish on X. “I look forward to a day filled with good food, great friendships and lasting memories. 9th year is coming soon!”

Dench said she won’t be traveling to see Hinton in person this year for health reasons, instead joining her via FaceTime for the holiday.

The two accidentally connected in 2016 when Dench sent a Thanksgiving dinner invitation to the wrong number.

Hinton was 17 at the time and said he was glad he stopped by.

This text created a bond between the two people that has stood the test of time and captured the attention of the country ever since.

Earlier this year, Wench announced that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer and said Hinton called her frequently to check on her.

“I smile when he calls because Jamal, you know, we met in 2016 and we’ve been together every Thanksgiving,” Dench said.

He is being treated in hospital Breast Cancer Center in Prescott Valley and has a great support system, which of course includes Hinton.

“I have such great friends. They check in on me. They ask me if I need food or if I’m running errands,” Dench said. “I received more support than I could have ever imagined and it helped me a lot.”

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