Through that bond, and with a lot in their lives to be thankful for, they've teamed up to make a difference for others.
Guida, 57, is founder of the StringsforaCURE Foundation, and Cordisco, 55, an honorary board member, helps get out the word to further the group's cause - helping cancer patients.
Guida, who started her La Petite Jewelers in Erie more than 30 years ago, makes jewelry from guitar strings that have been played by professional musicians - Jon Bon Jovi and blues guitarist Joe Bonamassa, to name two.
She sells the pieces - mostly online - and uses the money to supply patients with gas, grocery, or pharmacy gift cards; comfort baskets; wig vouchers; and educational materials.
She has received the strings of about 100 musicians in the last three years, Guida said. Since she began making the items and distributing the proceeds last year, the group has given about $8,000 to 85 individuals and has a good deal more to go, she said. The foundation's application for status as a tax-exempt charity is pending.
Her earrings, pendants, rings, and bracelets - which sell for about $25 to $500 - have brought in more than $24,000, Guida said.
"The joy is helping - me being able to give back, because I know how much it means," said Guida, whose cancer has been in remission for six years.
But back when they were "Paul girls," swooning over the Fab Four and others, and weighting a record player arm with pennies so it wouldn't skip, who knew?
"We were born across the street from each other," said Cordisco, who came to think of Guida as more of a cousin than a friend.
Though Cordisco moved to Upper Darby when she was young, their families remained close.
"We did the seven fishes dinner together on Christmas Eve," she said.
