A MOTHER-OF-TWO bravely battling breast cancer has taken time out to organise a star-studded charity snooker event with legend of the game Ronnie O’Sullivan.

Jacki Ithier was diagnosed with the illness back in February and has been undergoing chemotherapy at Chelmsford’s Broomfield Hospital.

Rather than feel sorry for herself the 43-year-old from Maldon decided she wanted to raise money for the Essex-based Helen Rollason Cancer Charity with a special event.

Jacki has known three-times world champion O’Sullivan since he was an up-and-coming player and even ran his website during the early years of his career.

So when she decided to put on a snooker exhibition match for charity, O’Sullivan jumped at the chance to help.

Now the stage is set for Charter Hall in Colchester on Bank Holiday Monday when O’Sullivan will be joined by other legends of the green baize including Jimmy White and John Virgo.

Jacki, whose own son Jean Luc, is a karate world champion, said she is hoping to raise more than �10,000.

“My entire world fell apart when it was confirmed that I had breast cancer and would have to undergo immediate chemotherapy, followed by an operation and then more chemotherapy.

“Although absolutely devastated, I tried not to get upset or cry near my loved ones. Instead I have tried to carry on as normal as is possible, almost pretending there is nothing wrong with me.”

O’Sullivan added: “Jacki and I have known each other a long time and I think her determination to give something back to the charity that is helping her is wonderful, which is why I wanted to help.

“Plus she’s doing all this while undergoing chemotherapy and working. I really am looking forward to the exhibition and hope it is a huge success.”

Tickets are �27.50 per person and there are also �100 VIP tickets available which include 45 minutes with O’Sullivan and White.

To book go to www.charter-hall.co.uk or call 01206 282020 or 07910 680648.