Former Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe helped open a £1 million holiday home for children with complex medical needs this week, marking the latest chapter in the legacy of Bradley Lowery.
Defoe, who formed a special bond with the young Sunderland fan during his battle with neuroblastoma, joined Bradley's mother, Gemma Lowery, and supporters of the Bradley Lowery Foundation at the launch of Super Brad's Pad in Scarborough on Tuesday.
The accessible five-bedroom retreat has been created to give families caring for seriously ill children the chance to spend precious time together and make lasting memories away from hospitals and treatment, while honouring Bradley's memory.
Jermain Defoe said Bradley Lowery would be 'looking down so proud' as Super Brad's Pad officially opens its doors (Image: Bradley Lowery Foundation)
Ms Lowery said: "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."
Inside Super Brad's Pad (Image: Bradley Lowery Foundation)
The home will welcome around 100 families a year and is designed for children with complex medical needs and disabilities.
It gives families a comfortable place to spend time together away from treatment, appointments and hospital stays.
Ms Lowery said: "Bradley continues to inspire everything we do.
Super Brad's Pad (Image: Bradley Lowery Foundation)
"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.
Inside Super Brad's Pad (Image: Bradley Lowery Foundation)
"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."
Defoe, who shared a well-known friendship with Bradley during his time at Sunderland AFC, 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.
Bradley Lowery and Jermain Defoe (Image: PA)
"I know how much thought, love, and care she has put into every part of it."
Defoe added: "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."
Bradley Lowery (Image: PA)
The first guests at Super Brad’s Pad will be 16-year-old Charlie, who has cerebral palsy, and his mother Michelle Creaser.
Charlie has endured a year of major surgery and bereavement, but continued his education at home and passed the GCSEs needed for his chosen college course.
The Bradley Lowery Foundation has supported Charlie’s family for several years, including by helping raise money for his surgery.
Inside Super Brad's Pad (Image: Bradley Lowery Foundation)
Ms Creaser 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."
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Inside Super Brad's Pad (Image: Bradley Lowery Foundation)
She said the Foundation had been a constant source of comfort and support.
Ms Creaser said: "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 was funded by £1 million raised through donations of money, services, materials and expertise from businesses, supporters and organisations.
The Bradley Lowery Foundation will manage the home so families can continue making memories together in Bradley’s memory.
Inside Super Brad's Pad (Image: Bradley Lowery Foundation)
The official opening of Super Brad's Pad (Image: Bradley Lowery Foundation)
Inside Super Brad's Pad (Image: Bradley Lowery Foundation)
Super Brad's Pad (Image: Supplied)
Inside Super Brad's Pad (Image: Bradley Lowery Foundation)