Jo Faces Crisis Op

She’s been out of the limelight for weeks and is set to remain there until next year.

But what her hordes of fans don’t realise is that S Club’s lead singer Jo O’Meara is suffering from a rare hereditary back condition which, according to a record company source, could at its worst land her in a wheelchair.

The blonde starlet, 23, is in so much pain that she has been ordered by her doctors to cancel all appearances for the rest of the year.

A worried chaperone from the band’s record company, Polydor, told 3am at the Smash Hits Poll Winners Party: “Jo is not just resting if that’s what you think. Her condition is really serious.

“She has seen specialists in the UK and in America and has been told that if she has an operation to correct her back then she could face being in a wheelchair.

“If she doesn’t have it, she could eventually end up in a wheelchair too. It’s a very difficult decision. She hasn’t made up her mind on what she’s going to do.

“She’s not well at all and is spending her time at home watching the rest of the band doing promotion for their new album.”

The problem lies in the discs in Jo’s spine which don’t work properly because they are dehydrated and are hitting her sciatic nerve. The condition can get so painful her legs often go into spasms.

Apart from having physiotherapy three times a week, she also has to follow a daily plan, which involves lots of stretches, sit-ups and flexibility exercises.

Our source added: “Jo is trying her best to get back to health for the start of the year. “She also is determined not to miss out on the tour which starts in April. But it’s a very difficult condition and she constantly feels uncomfortable with her back.”

News that S Club’s lead vocalist is out of action for the time being is a big blow to the band – who rely on her singing ability to get them to the top spot of the charts.

Record producers have already drafted in band member Rachel Stevens to re-record Jo’s lyrics to their new single, Alive, for public appearances – although fans will hear Jo when they buy the CD in shops.

S Club’s spokesman told 3am last night: “She’s doing very well at the moment. She’s following doctors orders so that she will be ready to perform again in January. Performing with the band is what she lives for.”

And Jo said: “My mum has had the condition for years and it’s something she lives with, just like me. “Taking this rest means I’ll be fit and well for the S Club United tour in April next year. I can’t wait to get back up there.”

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Credit: The Mirror

Posted: November 26th, 2002