Best Friends Raise $125K After Viral Cancer Story

A chance encounter on a New York City street transformed two best friends' lives when their story of love and loyalty touched millions of hearts.

Candace Eng and Diana Prince met in an English class at Manhattan Community College in 1976. They bonded over Chinese food, shared modeling gigs, and built a friendship that would last five decades through marriages, children, and countless holidays together.

When content creator Seth Clayton of Besties NYC stopped them on the street to ask if they were best friends, Candace opened up about her recent breast cancer diagnosis. She revealed how Diana had been by her side for every doctor's appointment, recovery session, and treatment. The emotional video went viral, reaching millions.

"I know that if the tables were turned, Candace would be there in a heartbeat," Diana said. "Her love and friendship are totally unconditional."

Diana's suggestion to get a second opinion proved crucial. Candace discovered her cancer was more advanced than initially diagnosed, though still in an early stage. After her mastectomy, she recovered at Diana's Connecticut apartment while Diana drove her to chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy sessions.

Diana's husband Kevin started a GoFundMe to help cover Candace's medical costs. Living in public housing on government assistance and Medicare, Candace faced her hardest battle with almost nothing in her pockets.

The Ripple Effect

Thousands of strangers responded to their genuine connection. The fundraiser surged past $125,000 as donations poured in from people moved by their bond.

"I am a changed person who has gained self-confidence and believes in herself now," Candace said. "Total strangers come up to us saying how much they have been touched by our genuine friendship."

The experience opened both women's eyes to the healing power of human connection. People stop them on the street for hugs, and the friends now understand how a simple touch can transform someone's day.

Their 50-year friendship proves that the people we meet by chance can become the family we choose.