Jermain Defoe has made a deeply personal gesture by donating £70,000 to the Bradley Lowery Foundation, helping to fund “Super Brad’s Pad” – a holiday retreat in Scarborough for children with life-limiting conditions. The location holds special meaning as it was where the Lowery family spent their final holiday with young Bradley before he tragically passed away from neuroblastoma in 2017.
The former England and Sunderland striker first met Bradley in 2016 when the little boy became a mascot for the Black Cats. Their bond quickly captured the nation’s heart, with Defoe visiting him in hospital and paying a moving tribute after his death. Speaking about his latest donation, Defoe said he was “honoured” to support the project, adding that he hoped the holiday home would “bring joy and comfort to families during difficult times.”
Bradley’s mother, Gemma, who is also CEO of the foundation, described Defoe’s contribution as “remarkable” and a testament to the enduring friendship between her son and the football star. She said it would help create “lasting memories for families who need it most.”
Plans for Super Brad’s Pad were first announced in 2018 but faced delays due to the pandemic. With Defoe’s donation, the foundation is a step closer to opening the retreat, alongside new initiatives such as hosting ill or disabled children’s families in a special box at Sunderland AFC matches this Premier League season.
