Jennifer Garner's heart-wrenching announcement of the loss of their long-time family dog just days before Thanksgiving has touched many. The 13 Going on 30 star shared the difficult news on Instagram, revealing that their beloved nine-year-old Golden Retriever Birdie had been "very ill" and managed to hold on long enough to say goodbye to her eldest daughter, Violet, who had returned home from college.

Ben Affleck's Support During Tough Times

Ben Affleck, who is going through a split with Jennifer Lopez, initially had reservations about his Thanksgiving plans. However, he has now decided to be there for his children and their mother. A source close to the situation told RadarOnline.com that Jennifer's grief is profound and Ben has offered to spend time with her over the holiday. This reunion, encouraged by their mutual friends, comes at a time when Affleck is taking a break from filming his upcoming thriller RIP with Matt Damon. It was also noted that Affleck, who split from JLo in August, originally planned a quiet holiday alone but changed his mind to offer comfort to Garner, as Birdie meant a lot to her.

Family Reunion Details

The family reunion is set to be a proper one, with their shared children - Violet, 18, Seraphina, 15, and Samuel, 12 - all present. This is a significant moment for the family as they come together to heal and support one another during this difficult time. Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck's decision to prioritize their family during this holiday shows the strength of their bond and their commitment to their children.

Impact on the Family

The loss of Birdie has had a profound impact on the family. It is a reminder of the preciousness of life and the importance of family. Jennifer Garner and her children are going through a tough time, but having Ben Affleck by their side will undoubtedly provide some comfort. This Thanksgiving reunion is not only about celebrating the holiday but also about coming together as a family to heal and move forward.