She Magazine JULY 2016 | Page 74

Friendship feature A AS FOR TOCCARRA, SHE ADMIRES LAMIBIA’S CONSISTENCY. “She is always there for me, no matter what. She is the one person that I have counted on in the past, and I know I can and will always count on her in the future.” She values her honesty as well. “Lamibia lets me know what is on her mind because she feels that it will be better for me to know how she feels than not to know. And, she is right. Her thoughts help me in my life every day, and I am blessed to have her as my best friend.” Toccarra also longed for a sister, especially as an only For over 20 years, Lamibia and Toccarra endured a lot together. They were a bit unprepared, however, when child. Although she never received one biologically, that Toccarra was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2008. Prior to receiving the news, Toccarra shared with Lamibia desire has been fulfilled through Lamibia. “I have lots of that she would have to undergo many tests. After hearing Toccarra was to receive an MRI the next day, Lamibia, friends that are really close to me, but Mib is different. along with her husband and daughter, showed up at her door at 3AM. “To have the most important people with I could never imagine my life without her in it.” me while I was going through health issues really meant - and still means - a lot. I will always hold tightly to this Back in the days of the ALERT program, the girls would memory.” At first, Lamibia was angry at the circumstances her best friend was facing. But, once the initial shock go on frequent field trips. In the ninth grade, they trav- was over, Lamibia stepped in with unconditional love and support, ready to take the ride with Toccarra, no matter eled to Mexico, and then, in the tenth grade, they went to how many bumps were to be in the road of uncertainty. During this time, Toccarra set quite an inspirational exam- Disney World. Having a great time no matter where they ple for Lamibia. “Although she may have some down days where she is pained or fatigued, I still see that beautiful, have gone, both have developed a passion for traveling wide smile and perseverance to go another day and help another person, as if she doesn’t have anything at all.” together. For the past 10 years, they have made time Lamibia, although she may not be aware of it, is setting an example for Toccarra as well. “Her friendship has made for an annual birthday celebration trip, usually taken me love life more. When I am down, our friendship always brings me up. She encourages me to be a better me in October, and they bring their friend, Kimberly, along. through her advice; but, most of the time, just through her presence.” Because they both enjoy the thrill of a great bargain, they Lamibia shares that while some people can be envious of what others have, Toccarra has always exhibited a also started a coupon club. “Toccarra and I are very silly. giving, Christ-like spirit. “She never judges me, and she never turns her back on me. She lets her light shine so We laugh at everything!” Toccarra adds, “My life is a lot brightly that everyone can see. I know our relationship is from the heart, and I know that our friendship will never more fun with Lamibia in it. I always have something to part.” This comes naturally to Toccarra, as she realizes Lamibia is certainly a gift from her Creator. “I am thankful look forward to when it comes to her. Whether it is a day that she is a strong woman that I can lean on when necessary. I will never forget how she broke down when she trip to New York to purchase her wedding dress or just a finally could not ignore the fact that I had been diagnosed with MS. I always knew that she loved me; however, this night at one of our houses talking and watching TV, it is was a time that it showed a lot. But, she made it through, and with her strength, she has encouraged me more always fun and enjoyable.” than she will ever know. Like I always say, ‘I have MS, MS does not have me.’ With Lamibia, I can handle anything.” Lamibia Dunham resides in Florence, South Carolina, where she is a registered nurse. She and her husband, Jairus, have three children: Amiya, Jameson, and Jairen. Toccarra Pasley resides in Charleston, South Carolina, where she is an LPN for Charleston Maternal Fetal Medicine. 76 JULY 2016 SHEMAGAZINE.COM