Grandma’s Heartbreaking Absence: The First Thanksgiving Without the Viral ‘Textgiving’ Reunion

PHOENIX — Wanda Dench, who gained fame for her unexpected Thanksgiving connection with Jamal Hinton, will not be able to join him this year due to health issues.

Their story began in 2016, when Wanda mistakenly texted Jamal, believing she was reaching out to her grandson. Instead of ignoring the message, Jamal responded with humor, asking if he could still come for dinner. His light-hearted reply sparked an annual Thanksgiving tradition that continued for nine years.

“The time really flew,” Wanda said from her home in Prescott Valley. Her current health challenges stem from a recent cancer diagnosis, leaving her unable to make the drive to Jamal’s home as he hosts Thanksgiving this year.

Now 26, Jamal has been a steadfast friend to Wanda. Their bond has deepened over the years, even as Wanda faced personal losses, including the death of her husband from COVID-19 in 2020. This year, she is recovering between rounds of chemotherapy and radiation, which has made travel unfeasible.

“Oddly enough,” she mentioned, “I have never met anybody in his family.” Despite this, their connection has become a source of joy and support in both their lives. They have shared significant milestones, including a memorable trip for Wanda’s first tattoo.

Though they won’t be together in person this Thanksgiving, Wanda remains optimistic about her future. “The tradition will continue,” she asserted, expressing hope to reunite with Jamal and his family by 2025.