There are moments in one’s life where a chance event makes a lasting impact. For Nynica Bobbitt it was when she was 16. She met someone who was paralyzed. The first thought that came to the teenager’s mind was, “I thought it would be really cool to help people like that regain function.” At that point, Nynica realized she wanted to be in the medical world.

Nynica had a great support system who encouraged her dreams. Her grandmother, Sue Campbell, help raised Nynica. Since Nynica’s mother was only 14 when Nynica was born, it was Sue who was teaching Nynica how to read and her multiplication tables. “Anything she could help me learn, she would. I knew multiplication before they taught it to me in school because Grandma taught me. She always told me I was going to go to college to be a nurse,” smiles Nynica. Around 10 years old, Sadie, Nynica’s mother, decided to move out. Nynica stayed with her grandmother but eventually moved in with her mother. Both encouraged her to attain her education.

Living up to the expectations of both mothers, Nynica was the first in her family to go to college. Nynica went to Winston-Salem State University to become a physical therapist. Needless to say it was a very proud moment when Nynica graduated.

Today, Nynica works for Home Health and can be seen in assisted living facilities, live-in facilities, and at people’s homes. So while she was raised by her grandmother, she is now helping other grandmothers and grandfathers have a better quality of life. “It may seem small to someone like you or me, but to them being able to stand up, get out of bed, or not use a walker or cane, can make a huge impact on someone’s life. For someone to have a better quality of life really warms my heart,” says Nynica.

One patient in particular who had back surgery never received physical therapy. Finally, she gave in and decided to get help. “Her posture was horrible and she was really weak,” explains Nynica. “She told me that when I first came she did not think physical therapy would even work, but now she sees it does and thanked me. To see it and appreciate those gains, that is the quality of life that I love to see.”

Not only does Nynica like to help others, she always offers her service with a smile. The ray of sunshine never seems to have a cloud overhead. “I don’t see a reason to be mean to people. I am a giggler. I laugh with all emotions,” Nynica adds with a giggle. “You just have to enjoy life and enjoy the people you are around. I don’t do negative personalities. Thomas and I try to surround ourselves with positive people. Life is to be enjoyed.”

Enjoying life with Thomas, has been a constant since Nynica was 16. She met him in high school and the sweethearts have been together ever since. “He is my best friend. We work out together in the mornings. I can give him a look and he knows what I am thinking about before I even say anything,” Nynica adds with another giggle. “He is hilarious. Anyone who knows me knows I love that man. I am married to my soul mate.”

What a full life Nynica continues to live. She is the definition of someone any neighbor would desire to have if in a pickle or especially if in need of physical therapy. As Nynica also notes, “We are small specs in the big scheme of things. Why be mean? Why be down?”