Our Love Story

Michelle & Andy

Michelle Singleton passed away from cancer in October 2005, and I lost my best friend of twelve years. She was a 32-year-old mother of four who loved life deeply and cherished her children. Although she never had much money, she always made sure her kids were cared for. They were her greatest priority, and she was a beautiful example of a mother to me and everyone who knew her. 

It was devastating to see her suffer through the physical effects of chemotherapy, along with not being able to spend quality time with her children. Witnessing her treatment and untimely death set me on a path to search for something that could give meaning to what felt like a senseless loss of such a special mother and friend.

After Michelle passed, I wanted to help a mom just like her. I wanted to make a mom’s life easier so she could spend more time with her kids and less time worrying about cleaning, cooking, and paying bills. I found that mom—a woman named Aracelli—at the oncology unit where Michelle had received her treatments.

I co-founded the nonprofit organization Singleton Moms (The Singletons AZ™) in my hometown of Phoenix, Arizona. After five years and helping over 100 parents, I left the organization and moved to Portland, Oregon, where I've continued our work.

With the help of my sister, Bobby, and financial support from Michelle Singleton’s mother, along with our family and friends, Michelle’s Love was established. We are excited to continue the work that began in Phoenix and help more single-parent families facing cancer.

With love,
Mrs. Andy Royal McCandless
Founder & Michelle's BFF

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