How a Portland nonprofit helps single parents fighting cancer [Video]

PORTLAND, Oregon — Volunteers came together Saturday to help a North Portland mom fighting cancer, a mission that’s been going on for almost 20 years. 

Michelle’s Love was founded in Portland by Andy McCandless, who started the nonprofit 19 years ago when she saw her best friend barely make ends meet while undergoing cancer treatment.

So far, Michelle’s Love has helped 228, including Jennifer. 

“She was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and is having a mastectomy Tuesday,” explained McCandless.

On Saturday, one of the volunteers, Marcy Thomas, helped out by cleaning Jennifer’s kitchen. Just a few years ago, she was in the same position. 

“I was diagnosed when I was 37 about five-and-half years ago with triple-negative breast cancer,” recalled Thomas. “I had a 12-year-old son at the time, and I am a single …