SUPER BRAD'S PAD
Jermain Defoe joined Bradley Lowery's mum Gemma to celebrate the opening of Super Brad's Pad, a £1 million accessible holiday home in Scarborough, created in Bradley's memory to give children with serious illnesses and disabilities the chance to make precious memories with their families.
The official opening, early today, brought together the former Sunderland and England striker, whose special friendship with Bradley touched the hearts of millions, and supporters of the Bradley Lowery Foundation who have helped make the project a reality.
The five-bedroom home, which will welcome up to one hundred families each year, has been specially designed to give children with complex medical needs and disabilities the opportunity to enjoy a holiday with their loved ones, away from the pressures of hospitals, appointments and treatment.
For Gemma, the opening marks the culmination of years of determination, fundraising and hard work to create a lasting legacy for her son: "Seeing Super Brad's Pad finished and ready to welcome families is incredibly emotional. There have been challenges along the way, but knowing what this home will mean to so many children and their families makes every moment worthwhile.
"We can't change what these families are going through, but we can give them somewhere to step away from it for a little while, be together and make memories that will last a lifetime. Bradley continues to inspire everything we do. I'm so proud that his legacy is helping other children and families, particularly those with complex needs and disabilities who might otherwise struggle to enjoy a holiday together.
"I cannot thank everyone enough who has helped make this possible. From our fundraisers and supporters to the businesses, volunteers, trustees and Foundation team, so many people have worked incredibly hard to make this happen. Super Brad's Pad is part of Bradley's legacy, and I hope every family who walks through its doors leaves with happy memories they will treasure forever."
Jermain, who has continued to support the Foundation and followed the development of Super Brad's Pad, said: "I'm so proud to continue supporting the Bradley Lowery Foundation and everything Gemma and the team are doing to keep Brad's legacy alive. Gemma has worked so hard to make Super Brad's Pad perfect for the families who will stay here. I know how much thought, love and care she has put into every part of it.
"For families going through incredibly difficult times, having somewhere they can get away together and make precious memories is so important. Brad touched so many people's lives, and it means a lot to me to still be part of his legacy. I know Brad will be looking down so proud of his mam and everything she has achieved in his name."
Among those attending the opening was 16-year-old Charlie, who has cerebral palsy, and his mum Michelle Creaser, whose family will be the first to stay at Super Brad's Pad. Charlie has endured a particularly difficult year, undergoing major surgery and dealing with the devastating loss of his dad, while continuing his education at home and passing the GCSEs he needed to pursue his chosen college course. The Bradley Lowery Foundation has supported Charlie and his family for several years, previously helping them raise funds towards surgery.
Michelle said: "Charlie has had such a difficult year, and I couldn't be prouder of the way he has coped with everything, including losing his dad and undergoing major surgery. Receiving the phone call from Gemma to say that we had been chosen as the first family to stay at Super Brad's Pad was incredibly emotional, especially as it came on the first anniversary of Charlie's dad's death. The Foundation has always held a special place in my heart. Whenever we need them, I know they will be there, and they never fail to put a smile on Charlie's face."
Super Brad's Pad has been made possible through £1 million of fundraising and the generosity of supporters, businesses and organisations that have contributed materials, equipment, services and expertise. The Bradley Lowery Foundation will continue to manage the home, ensuring families can enjoy precious time together in Bradley's memory for many years to come.
