JO Jones, who used to live in Cinderford, will be taking to the streets of London on May 12 to join in the 15th annual Moonwalk to raise money for breast cancer charities.

When she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer at the age of 37 in July 2009, her world fell apart.  

Fearing she would not make it to her 38th birthday, she embarked upon a series of operations and treatment, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

 Now, nearly three years and two mastectomies later, she is approaching her 40th birthday and has every reason to celebrate.  

"My biggest fear was not being there to see my boys grow up.  They were only eight and three at the time of my diagnosis.  It's every mum's worst nightmare," says Jo, who now lives in Churchdown with her husband, Adrian, and two sons, William and Oliver.

Under the expert care of Miss Sarah Vestey at Gloucester Royal Hospital and Dr Benstead at the Oncology Centre in Cheltenham, Jo is now fit and well and looking to the future.  

"During my treatment, the support I received from everyone – health professionals, family, friends and colleagues – was overwhelm­ing.  Now as I approach my special birthday, it's time to mark the occasion by giving something back," Jo says.

Completing the 26 mile powerwalk with her will be her mum, Janet Saville, who lives in Lydney and will be celebrating a special birthday of her own later in May, as well as friends Dawn Bellamy and Helen Bilkey.  Completing the 'Nobbly Bobbly' team are Rachel Hook and Janice Pryce.  

Jo says: "This is not just about raising money for a very important cause. This is about showing people that a breast cancer diagnosis is not the end of the world.  To anyone who has just had the news that they have got it, or for anyone awaiting results, there is hope.  I'm proof of that."