By Myra Richman......Singleton Moms held its 2nd Annual Giving Hands Ball on December 4, 2010 at the new Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale.

Singleton Moms, which was founded in late 2006, already has helped over 100 single parents and their children.  They're dedicated to bringing help and support to struggling single parents battling cancer.  These unique programs offer the emotional, financial and domestic support that these courageous moms and dads need while undergoing treatment.

No other aid-based organization tackles the challenges of daily-living faced by single parents with cancer but Singleton Moms, established by two women after watching their childhood friend succumb to this dreaded disease.

A single mother who left four young children at her passing at just 32 years old, Michelle Singleton gallantly fought her medical battle while still serving others. Through their personal experiences with Michelle, the two friends, Andy Royal and Jody Farley-Berens, discovered that aid based organizations were few and far between.

Farley-Berens, Singleton Moms’ executive director, said that funds raised from this event will help the non-profit provide continued care to the families currently on service Valley-wide but also address many more parents in need who are on the waiting list while receiving treatment for cancer. Funds will help Singleton Moms serve healthy meals to their families, clean their homes, do other household chores, pay their bills, and most importantly give these courageous parents emotional support that so many of them desperately need.

Royal, who serves as care director for the non-profit says, "What better way to spend the evening than to dance the night away while raising funds for a great cause? Most of us know someone whose life has been turned upside down by cancer. Imagine being single and trying to raise your children while undergoing chemotherapy or radiation."

In addition to raising funds for their much needed programs, Singleton Moms honored Oncologist Dr. Albert Wendt, MD with the Mending Hands Award for his exemplary care of women with cancer. Also being honored with the Rosa Davalos Giving Hands Award were the Central Arizona Projects, CAP Turnouts, for their participation in a home make-over of one of Singleton Moms "moms" as well as their dedicated and continued support of the organization.

A highlight of the evening was watching the Singleton Moms honor each other on the dance floor with the first dance of the evening.  Lots of tears of sadness and joy were shared during the video, which explained the many emotions families go through while enduring treatment and family responsibilities. 

To think of what two loving and caring friends can do in recognizing one's lowest time of need, during cancer treatment and recovery, is quite a testament to their spirit, character, heart and ability.

For more information, visit www.singletonmoms.org.