EVERY mother’s worst nightmare came true for Jo French when tests showed six-year-old son Chris had acute myeloid leukemia.

Four years later, Chris is in remission and Jo is getting ready to do a 100ft abseil to thank a cancer charity that helped them.

She will be joined by 18 friends to raise cash for Clic Sargent at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford on Sunday.

The Banbury resident, 41, said the charity provided a vital support for the family when Chris was diagnosed in November 2008.

She said: “He started off with what seemed like a cold and went on to get a chest infection within a space of two weeks. He couldn’t walk, that’s when he was admitted to hospital. They did a simple blood test – I was absolutely devastated.

The Hardwick estate resident said: “Clic Sargent were wonderful in the help and support they gave myself and my family. I want to give something back to them.”

She added: “Chris has suffered a little bit of brain damage and has lost his hearing in one ear. He has day-to-day difficulties but generally his health is good. It is very encouraging.”

Last year “Team Chris” raised almost £2,000 by abseiling down the hospital and hope to beat that figure on Sunday.

The abseil will begin at 9am. To take part call Amanda Chapple of Clic Sargent on 01865 767049 or email amanda.chapple@clicsargent.org.uk