Some friendships begin in the most unexpected ways, and those are often the ones that touch us most. That’s why so many people have followed the sweet story of Wanda Dench and Jamal Hinton, the stranger she accidentally invited to Thanksgiving ten years ago. What started as a simple texting mix-up grew into a tradition loved around the world.

Back in 2016, Wanda meant to message her grandson but sent the invite to Jamal instead. When he jokingly asked if he could still come, she replied with a warm, grandmotherly “Of course you can.” Their first Thanksgiving together went viral, and their bond only grew stronger in the years that followed.

The turning point came last year when Wanda shared heartbreaking news. A checkup for bronchitis revealed breast cancer, and the treatment left her too vulnerable to attend Thanksgiving in person. She was crushed to miss the gathering but stayed hopeful that better days would come.

Even from afar, Wanda and Jamal kept their tradition alive. They chatted with his family over Instagram Live, laughing and catching up as if they were all around the same table. Their connection showed that love and friendship don’t stop for hardship.

This year brought the joyful update everyone hoped for—Wanda is now cancer-free. She and Jamal reunited for Thanksgiving once again, with Green Giant even providing the holiday meal. For both of them, it felt like coming home.

Looking back, Jamal says he never imagined one mistaken text would change so many lives. Wanda hopes their story reminds people what Thanksgiving is really about—good food, open hearts, and the courage to welcome someone new.