IT is time to dance for Suffolk leukaemia survivor Oli Rofix.It has been nearly a year since the 21-year-old had a bone marrow transplant and today there is no sign of the cancer returning.

IT is time to dance for Suffolk leukaemia survivor Oli Rofix.

It has been nearly a year since the 21-year-old had a bone marrow transplant and today there is no sign of the cancer returning.

Now, in an attempt to raise money to help fight the disease, he will be among the guests of honour at a charity ball organised by friend Rachael Mittell.

Miss Mittell, who used to work with cancer patients, has arranged a black tie ball at Ipswich Town Hall and is looking to sell 350 tickets.

She said Oli is an example of how people can be helped if charities are supported.

Mr Rofix, of Clopton, underwent the operation on March 26 last year after the Anthony Nolan Trust found a suitable donor.

He had primitive acute leukaemia - an aggressive and quick developing form of cancer.

The apprentice engineer at the Port of Felixstowe, said: “I consider myself very lucky. Everything went to plan with the transplant.

“I'm going for blood tests and check ups every four weeks and the doctors can't see any leukaemia.

“It is usually five years until they can say 'congratulations you've beaten it' but its good news so far.

“I believe being positive is the way forward and I want people to know good things come from supporting these charities.”

The ball, in aid of Leukaemia Research, will include a four course meal with wine, live music, and a charity auction. The aim is to raise £5,000.

Leukaemia Research funds the haematology department at the University of Cambridge which is studying primitive acute leukaemia.

Miss Mittell, who works at a horse rescue centre, said: “Oli is a role model to show everyone they can beat leukaemia.

“I worked on a cancer ward at Ipswich Hospital and you do see people come in and leave again.

“I've lost two friends to the disease and will be remembering them but it's also important to show that people do beat it.”

The 24-year-old, of The Green, Otley, added: “The ball is in honour of people past, present and future who have coped with leukaemia at some point in their lives.”

n. The ball is on August 4, from 7pm. To buy tickets, £45 per diner, call Miss Mittell on 01473 890470 or 07701 096702, or e-mail her at rachmittell@msn.com. Tickets can be booked individually, or for tables of ten.

Leukaemia Research was established in 1960. It relies entirely on donations.