Michelle Cooper’s husband, Billy, died suddenly in his sleep aged just 39 in late 2013, leaving her to raise children Jenae, 9, and Levi, 3, alone.

This year Levi has been in and out of Newcastle and Sydney hospitals as doctors attempt to diagnose a growth buried deep within his brain.

Compounding her stress is that Mrs Cooper lost her job last week and now must sell her rent-to-buy home or face losing a substantial deposit.

Mrs Cooper’s reluctance to ask for help saw a close friend intervene this week and call for volunteers to hold a working bee to spruce up the house.

The response was immediate, with individuals and local businesses – including North West Frames and Trusses and Tomo’s Lawn Maintenance – offering to donate their time.

Mrs Cooper said she was astonished and immensely grateful for the support of everyone who had come forward offering their services. 

“I’m not a person to ask for help – it’s just not me,” she said.

“But if I don’t sell the house, then I’ll lose the deposit, which was my hubby’s super money.”

Barry McAway, of North West Frames and Trusses, only moved from Brisbane to Tamworth nine weeks ago, but said he was more than happy to help.

“It’s a good opportunity for us to meet new people and we don’t mind helping people who need a hand,” he said.

Working bees to prepare Mrs Cooper’s South Tamworth home for sale will be held today and next Saturday.