A heartbreaking update on the Thanksgiving customs of the grandmother and stranger was shared.
One of the most treasured friendships on the internet began in 2016 after a typo in a text message.
An explanation for the Thanksgiving confusion.
Arizonan Wanda Dench, aged 65, planned to host Thanksgiving dinner for her grandson.
Rather, she texted a total stranger in Phoenix, 17-year-old Jamal Hinton.
Jamal cheekily inquired, “Can I still get a plate?” after realizing the mistake.
Wanda, always the gracious hostess, famously said, “Of course! It’s what grandmothers do.Give food to everyone.
What might have been a quick encounter turned into the beginning of a deep connection.
The friendship between Jamal and Wanda is highlighted.
They had Thanksgiving that year after Jamal accepted Wanda’s invitation.
Their touching tale of compassion, connection, and an open seat at the table went viral.
Wanda and Jamal continued their custom of getting together on Thanksgiving for the next eight years.
The two became close, enjoying dinners, laughs, and family time that cut across generations.
When Wanda’s husband, Lonnie, died in 2020 from COVID-19 complications, tragedy hit.
Their unwavering connection was cemented as Jamal continued to be a reliable source of support.
By 2021, their relationship had even attracted the attention of Hollywood, which led to the creation of the Netflix movie The Thanksgiving Text.
The goal of the still-in-production film is to tell their inspiring tale to the globe.
In a joint statement, they said, “We hope it inspires others to form connections they wouldn’t normally make.”
Their Thanksgiving custom eventually turned into a ray of hope for their followers everywhere.
However, the cherished pair had to spend their first Thanksgiving apart in nine years this year.
A devastating update was made public.
Wanda had health issues earlier in 2023, which were first thought to be bronchitis.
But something much more worrisome was discovered by a follow-up CT scan: a tumor in her breast.
Wanda started chemotherapy after a mammogram revealed breast cancer.
She expressed her surprise, pointing out that previous mammograms had been clear and that cancer did not run in her family.
She had to put her recuperation first because the procedure left her physically exhausted despite her fortitude.
Wanda’s terrible choice was revealed.
Wanda had to make the painful choice to skip their in-person celebration this year because she lives two hours away from Jamal.
“We decided that staying at home would be best for my health,” Wanda said.
Despite their physical separation, the couple was determined not to let distance ruin their festive mood.
The message of optimism from Wanda and Jamal was emphasized.
Instead, they maintained their beloved custom remotely by connecting over Instagram Live.
Ever hopeful, Wanda thought, “Despite its difficulties, life is still worth living.”
“This isn’t the end of our Thanksgivings together,” Jamal promised supporters.
Fan support poured in, with many expressing how the story of Wanda and Jamal had motivated them.
One fan said, “It’s a reminder to cherish life, embrace kindness, and keep loved ones close.”
Wanda and Jamal are already anticipating the next Thanksgiving while she concentrates on her recuperation.
As of right now, their relationship is still a potent illustration of the value of unforeseen bonds.