Accidental Thanksgiving Text Sparks Decade-Long Friendship

A grandmother’s accidental text inviting a stranger to Thanksgiving dinner has led to a decade-long friendship that has captured the hearts of many. In 2016, Jamal Hinton, then a high school senior, received a group message on his new phone number. Initially believing the message was from his grandmother, Hinton soon realized the sender was someone else entirely.

To confirm his suspicions, Hinton asked the sender, Wanda Dench, to send a selfie. The result was a picture of Dench, who was not Hinton’s grandmother. Responding humorously, Hinton texted, “You not my grandma. Can I still get a plate though?” Dench’s warm reply, “Of course you can. That’s what grandma’s do…feed everyone,” marked the beginning of an unexpected journey.

The heartfelt exchange quickly went viral, leading to a meeting at Dench’s home, arranged by her grandson. Hinton, who was 17 at the time, described the experience as nerve-wracking due to the distance and unfamiliarity. “I was scared because it was about a 45-minute drive away from my house,” he admitted during an appearance on the Today Show. The pressure of media coverage provided Hinton with the courage to meet Dench.

What began as a mistaken text has blossomed into a cherished Thanksgiving tradition. Over the years, Hinton and Dench have celebrated together every Thanksgiving, marking their tenth holiday together this year. Their bond has deepened through life’s ups and downs, including the pandemic, the loss of Dench’s husband, and her battle with breast cancer.

Wanda Dench, now 68, reflected on their relationship, stating, “There was no generation gap at all…like we were just like pals forever.” She expressed gratitude for the love and family that emerged from their initial encounter. Hinton echoed these sentiments, marveling at how a simple mistake has brought joy to so many.

Fans of the duo eagerly anticipate their annual reunion, which has become a symbol of unexpected friendship and connection. Dench and Hinton alternate hosting duties, demonstrating that family can be formed in the most unexpected ways. As Hinton noted, “It’s just amazing to sit back and think that one mistaken text led to so many people’s happiness and joy.”

Their story serves as a reminder of the potential for kindness and connection in an increasingly digital world.