What began with a simple decision to sit beside a stranger on the first day of college nearly 50 years ago blossomed into an extraordinary friendship that has inspired millions around the world and strengthened an enduring connection to Barbados.
Candace Eng and Barbadian Diana Prince, whose heart-warming story recently captured worldwide social media audiences, were among the guests attending the Caribbean Tourism Organisation’s Rum & Rhythm Benefit at Lavan Chelsea during Caribbean Week in New York.
The lifelong friends met Minister of Tourism and International Transport Ian Gooding-Edghill, Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) chief executive officer Andrea Franklin, BTMI (US) director Peter Mayers and other members of the Barbados delegation.
The BTMI team was delighted to connect with the pair, whose positivity and affection for Barbados have won admirers around the globe.
“The team was thrilled to connect with the besties, who brought their good vibes to the event,” BTMI officials said.
The women first met in 1977 on their first day at Manhattan Community College when Diana took the only empty seat beside Candace.
Friendship
Their friendship recently went viral after they appeared on the online platform BestiesNYC, where they spoke candidly about their lifelong bond, families, their shared love for Barbados and the importance of showing up for one another during difficult times.
The emotional interview resonated deeply with audiences, attracting millions of views across social media platforms and leading to appearances on national television, including NBC’s TODAY Show.
Diana has maintained close ties to Barbados and regularly returns to visit family. Those trips eventually became a cherished tradition that she shared with Candace, who developed her own deep appreciation for Barbados’ culture, people and natural beauty.
Their friendship would soon face one of its greatest tests.
Last year, Candace was diagnosed with breast cancer and began an intensive treatment journey that included a mastectomy, chemotherapy, radiation and immunotherapy.
Throughout every appointment, treatment and difficult day, Diana remained firmly by her side.
When Candace received her diagnosis, Diana reportedly made her a simple promise: “You’re not going anywhere without me being with you.”
It was a promise she kept.
Their unwavering support for each other touched people around the world and sparked an outpouring of encouragement from strangers inspired by their friendship.
Earlier this month, on Best Friends Day, the pair celebrated another major milestone when Candace rang the bell marking the completion of her chemotherapy treatment, with Diana standing proudly next to her.
The public response to their story has been overwhelming.
A fund-raising campaign launched to assist with Candace’s medical expenses and recovery attracted support from around the world, helping to ease some of the financial burdens associated with treatment.
Their growing popularity also brought an unexpected reward.
Candace and Diana were surprised with a dream trip from the BTMI to Barbados – the destination that already held a special place in both of their hearts.
The last time Candace and Diana visited Barbados together was in September 2025, before Candace’s cancer treatments intensified.
Memorial service
Diana returned to the island in April this year with her mother for a deeply personal visit following the death of her brother.
During that trip, the family held a memorial service and fulfilled his final wishes by spreading his ashes in Barbados.
Candace had hoped to make the journey but was unable to travel as she was undergoing cancer treatment.
Both women are eager to return to Barbados together soon and on their wish list are swimming with turtles, watching the island’s famous green monkeys and spending more time creating memories with family and friends. ( NS/PR)
(left) and Candace Eng (right) with Chef Damian Leach, who won first prize for Barbados in the People’s Choice category for Best Culinary Cuisine.
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