Each month we will spotlight one of our parents so that you may learn a little more about her story.
Rosemary - Phoenix
Rosemary is a grandmother that has been put in a situation where it has become her job to raise her grandchildren. A hard working single mother and grandmother, serving the Public Defender’s Office for over 14 years when in 2010, like many others, was laid off. She continued to make the best of things and continued to care for her two grandsons. She did her best to get by. As she searched to find work, she soon found out that she would be in for a completely different kind of fight. She was diagnosed February 2011 with Advanced Breast Cancer.
She began chemotherapy and in talking with a Cancer Associate at her hospital, found out about a local support organization, Singleton Moms. Soon after, she reached out for the support.
“The first time I met with Rosemary, all she talked about was her sweet grandsons,” says Director of Care, Cassie Robles.
“She was nearly finished with chemo and getting ready for her surgery. She welcomed me with open arms and this soft spoken woman humbly told me how much she appreciated anything we could do to help her get through this time. ”
That’s just what Singleton Moms did. Singleton Mom’s team stepped up to the plate and provided meals which was one of Rosemary’s biggest concerns. Rosemary’s boys had birthdays within days of each other and Singleton Moms was able to provide gift cards so the boys could have a celebration with family and friends. Rosemary was set up with volunteer Care Coordinator Terresa, who does what she does best, talked with Rosemary to find out what other challenges she was having. Terresa arranged to have services provided through Singleton Moms Phonebook program, brought the family to the Singleton Kids Halloween Bash where the boys were able to pick out their own costumes. Special holiday meals were provided and Rosemary and her two grandsons were adopted through Singleton Moms Holiday-Adopt-A-Family program. Rosemary was put on our full service list in November and Singleton Moms has since been able to help with the monthly utility bills.
“I am just so grateful for everything you have done.” Rosemary says,
“It was so helpful and when I am better, I want to give back to others what you have given me.” Rosemary is nearly finished with her radiation treatments and is looking forward to feeling well and getting back to work. Thank you for supporting us so that we can support her.