Grandma And The Stranger She Mistakenly Texted In 2016 Will Spend 8th Thanksgiving Together

November 20, 2023

In a heartwarming twist of fate, Wanda and Jamal are set to celebrate their eighth Thanksgiving together, marking another year of love and gratitude that blossomed from a serendipitous text mishap back in 2016.

good news stories Thanksgiving
Credit: airbnb.com / @airbnb

It all began when Wanda, eager to invite a friend over for Thanksgiving, accidentally sent an invitation to Jamal, a virtual stranger at the time. Unbeknownst to her, Jamal had recently changed his phone number, leading to the mix-up that would change their lives forever.

Rather than dismissing the unexpected invitation, Jamal, intrigued by the friendly message, decided to accept the offer. As the years unfolded, Wanda and Jamal's relationship deepened, growing stronger with each passing Thanksgiving.

This year, the pair joined forces with Airbnb to open Dench's home to other people who want to share in the Thanksgiving tradition.

"Exciting news, guys – our Thanksgiving year 8 plans are with you! With @airbnb's help, we're hosting you and a friend at Wanda's home this year," Jamal shared.

The airbnb is in Prescott Valley, Arizona - a quaint city a few hours outside of Phoenix where Wanda calls home.

"With beautiful mountain views and light snowfall during the winter, it’s the perfect location for hosting guests and spending quality time together around the holidays," the airbnb description reads.

Jamal has documented their holiday tradition each year since on his social media. It's a story many people look forward to seeing on Thanksgiving.

thanksgiving grandma and stranger text
@jamalhinton12

thanksgiving grandma and stranger text
@jamalhinton12

thanksgiving grandma and stranger text
@jamalhinton12

Their story serves as a reminder that love and connection can emerge from the unlikeliest of circumstances.

"It has been an amazing journey," Wanda told Fox 10.

"She is an amazing person. She is the best," Jamal added.