A BARRY mum who set up a charity to help bring an advanced cancer treatment machine to Wales, after travelling to England to receive the treatment herself, is in remission from the disease.

32-year-old Karen Holroyd travelled to Mount Vernon Hospital in London in November last year, where she underwent treatment using the CyberKnife robotic stereotactic radiosurgery system - a non-invasive alternative to surgery for the treatment of cancerous and non-cancerous tumours.

But having been told of her own positive outcome, Karen and her fellow Karen's Cause trustees fear a fundraising ball - intended to help cancer patients eventually access Cyberknife in Wales - could have to be called off if ticket sales don't improve.

The charity ball - scheduled for next month - has so far received support from singer and television presenter Charlotte Church, who has donated a dress for auction, and Barry boxing brothers Lee and Andrew Selby, who have pledged signed gloves for auction.

Karen, of College Place, said the news that she is in remission has 'not yet sunk in' and that she remains determined other patients will also have the prospect of improving their health.

"The Macmillan nurse at Velindre said 'you are in remission'," explained Karen.

"At first I just sat there saying 'wow', and then I said 'are you sure?'

"Then I saw the report and I was quite emotional.

"Twelve months ago they were saying there was nothing they could do, and now there is no sign of the disease. I don't think I have quite got my head around it."

Karen, who took part in the Race For Life in July, is an experienced legal secretary and is now looking for employment and continuing her law studies.

And she people will rally to support the first ever Karen's Cause ball by bidding, in advance, on auction items and attending on the night.

Half of the tickets are already sold, but Karen needs individuals and businesses to take their seats at tables. "There is a danger it might not happen," she said.

"Obviously we don't want to go down that road, but there's so many things going on and it's difficult to get people to spend money."

Supporting the Karen's Cause Annual Ball will be The Underdogs who will perform live.

Ticket cost £35 and include a reception drink, three course meal and entertainment, plus auction and raffle, with more to be confirmed.

The Ball is at the Masonic Hall from 7pm on Saturday, October 13.

For tickets and details call 07703 778419 or email karenscause@hotmail.co.uk

To support Karen and the team's fundraising mission, follow Karen's Cause on Facebook.