Prominent Avery County citizen Tim Singleton was seriously injured in an accident

By Tim Gardner

Tim Singleton, widely considered one of Avery County’s most prominent citizens, was seriously injured in the early evening of May 2 when a large mowing machine that he was attempting to unload from a vehicle trailer at his home on Rodgers Ridge fell on him the Pyatte community of the county.

He was transported by ambulance to Blue Ridge Regional Hospital in Spruce Pine. After his emergency physician diagnosed Singleton’s injuries that night and determined the immediate need for more complex treatments, he was flown by MAMA Air Ambulance helicopter to the emergency room at Mission Hospital in Asheville.

Singleton suffered 14 broken ribs and the collapse of both lungs. As a result, his oxygen levels dropped significantly and he suffered unbearable pain. He was originally in critical condition, and doctors who examined Singleton said it was a miracle from God that he survived the accident. But his condition has improved and the mission doctors currently treating him have upgraded him to stable and are pleased with his progress with the treatments he is receiving. The doctors and other medical staff caring for Singleton are taking all necessary precautions to prevent him from developing pneumonia and other related ailments that could complicate his continued recovery and ultimate recovery.

Singleton’s family members said he was alert and was able to get out of his hospital bed, sit in a chair and walk.

His doctors have indicated that Singleton will remain hospitalized for several more days and possibly even weeks, depending on how much his improvement continues. The estimated total recovery time is expected to be several months if he does not experience any further complications. He is a gardener by profession and will likely be unable to work for part of his recovery period.

Singleton is a lifelong resident of Avery County and is considered one of its most popular citizens. He graduated from Avery County High School in Newland in 1984, where he was a star athlete in several sports. He was also the school’s 1983 Homecoming King (1983–1984 school year). Singleton is appreciated by those who know him best for his friendly and cheerful demeanor, his sincere Christianity and frequent sharing of his testimony with people, and for helping others in any way he can. He is a member of Big Meadows Baptist Church in Pyatte, where he serves on the Board of Deacons and also assists with various ministries and needs.

Tim Singleton is one of two sons born to Roger and Pat Singleton. He is married to the former Jacki Cantrell of the Minneapolis Community, also in Avery County. They have a daughter, Amber, married to Ethan Sluder, and two grandchildren: granddaughter Indy Mae and grandson Riggins. Singleton also has a brother, Jamie, a sister-in-law, Tracy, a half-sister, Faith Singleton Miller, a half-brother-in-law, Jaden Miller, and a stepmother, Darlene Singleton.

Unfortunately, Singleton has no insurance to help offset the astronomical amounts in medical bills. Those wishing to donate to help cover expenses can do so in person at United Community Bank in Newland, 200 Linville Street, or by calling the bank at (828) 733-9281. Determine the donation for the Tim & Jacki Singleton account.

Donations can also be made by signing up online using the GoFundMe link below:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/helping-with-medical-bills-for-tim-singleton

Additionally, donations, as well as “Get Well Soon” cards, notes, and letters, can also be sent via U.S. Mail to:

Tim Singleton

345 Rodgers Ridge Rd

Newland, NC 28657