Ratona, your friend sounds great.
When i got seperated I was horribly ousted by the big group of couples friends that we had. One of these friends has since seperated. Her stbx is a total dweeb and has her so downtrodden, some things are beyond flabbergasting. This particular friend gave me the cold shoulder when I separated,and if I ever saw her, would say things like I dont know how you do it all etc. Now she is in the same situation. So, guess who was the first one at her door when she was feeling all down. Yip me. Who is the one she calls, yes me. Some of my family who know the situation ask me over and over why I am her support base, but she (or none of them) were there for me when I needed it. All i say is that she didn't know any better. People can only imagine what its like, but they don't really know.
She lay in bed for days, (i was really quite worried about her, her teen dc didnt take it well and it cause a lot of problems ), went to the shops, bought some basics for the cupboard, tidied the kitchen, and tidied up a bit etc.
I know what that meant to her, she didnt even have to say it. We have become a lot more close now, although to be honest we dont see each other as much as we say we will, as you all know, spare time isnt always in our favour.
So yes, there have been a few comments from posters who are saying hats off to you it must be difficult. I know its meant well, but you really will never ever know until you are in the situation. Not only are we physically responsible for every single thing in the home, but the mental side of it as just as huge. And there isnt someone there to bash a few ideas around with. Keep in mind that most single parents are single because they are come through a trauma of some sort as well.