“Thanksgiving Grandma” reveals breast cancer diagnosis

PHOENIX, Ariz. (KPHO/Gray News) – The Arizona grandmother who captured hearts after mistakenly inviting a stranger to Thanksgiving nearly a decade ago revealed this week that she was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Wanda Dench, dubbed the “Thanksgiving Grandma,” revealed the grim diagnosis on Jamal Hinton’s X account on Wednesday.

Grandma is going through chemotherapy and has been meeting with doctors since her diagnosis.

“Everyone was very kind, supportive and knowledgeable. My family and friends quickly came to my aid and have supported me through everything,” she said. “I’ve learned a lot of life lessons through all of this, but what I want to stress most of all is just because you can be old, we still have one life to live. So keep doing your revisions and keep living YOUR life !”

Dench said her chemotherapy treatments are going well.

He has completed two months so far and has one more to go. After that, the radiation will begin.

She is being treated at Prescott Valley Breast Cancer Center and has a wonderful support system, which of course includes Hinton.

“I have such wonderful friends. They check up on me. They ask if I need food or run errands for me,” Dench said. “I’ve had a lot more support than I could have ever imagined I would have and that helps a lot.”

Dench said that Hinton controls her by calling, which brings a smile to her face.

They have plans for Thanksgiving again this year, but they’re not sure if it’s going to Chandler or coming to Prescott Valley.

“When he calls, I smile because Jamal, you know, we met in 2016 and we’ve been together every Thanksgiving,” Dench said.

He said final plans will depend on his treatment schedule, but he’s looking forward to the Thanksgiving visit.

Copyright 2024 KPHO via Gray Local Media, Inc. All rights reserved.