The Bradley Lowery Foundation celebrated the completion of its flagship project this week: a £1 million, five-bedroom retreat in Scarborough called Super Brad’s Pad. The house, built in memory of six-year-old Sunderland supporter Bradley Lowery, is designed to give families coping with complex medical needs a peaceful setting far from hospitals and appointments.
Opening ceremony and key supporters
The ribbon-cutting took place on a sunny Tuesday, with Bradley’s mother, Gemma Lowery, leading the ceremony alongside former England striker Jermain Defoe. Defoe, who formed a close friendship with Bradley before the boy’s death from neuroblastoma in 2017, contributed £70,000 of his own funds to the project. Sunderland legend Kevin Ball also joined the gathering, underscoring the football community’s long-standing commitment to the cause.
Design, capacity and charitable purpose
Super Brad’s Pad comprises five spacious bedrooms, each equipped with accessible bathrooms, wheelchair-friendly doorways, and specialised medical equipment storage. The layout enables up to 100 families per year to stay for short breaks, providing a home-like environment where children with serious illnesses or disabilities can relax with their loved ones. The foundation emphasises that the house is not a medical facility; instead, it is a place for recreation, bonding, and memory-making away from the pressures of treatment.
Gemma Lowery’s reflections
Speaking to the assembled guests, Gemma described the opening as “incredibly emotional” and highlighted the years of fundraising, volunteer work, and perseverance that made the project possible. She noted that while the foundation cannot change the hardships families endure, it can “offer a sanctuary where they can be together and create memories that last a lifetime.” Gemma added that Bradley’s spirit continues to guide every decision, and she expressed profound gratitude to donors, local businesses, and volunteers who helped bring the vision to life.
Jermain Defoe on continuing Bradley’s legacy
Defoe reiterated his admiration for the Lowery family, saying, “Gemma has poured love and thought into every corner of this home. For families facing overwhelming challenges, a safe place to make happy memories is priceless.” He emphasized that his personal contribution was driven by the impact Bradley had on his own life, and he promised ongoing support for the foundation’s future projects.
First guests and the road ahead
Among the attendees was 16-year-old Charlie, who lives with cerebral palsy, and his mother Michelle Creaser. Charlie’s family will be the inaugural guests, a privilege that arrived on the first anniversary of his father’s passing. The foundation had previously assisted the Creasers with fundraising for Charlie’s surgery, demonstrating its broader commitment beyond the holiday home. Michelle described the invitation as “incredibly emotional,” noting that the house offers her son a rare opportunity to enjoy a normal holiday experience.
The Bradley Lowery Foundation will continue to manage Super Brad’s Pad, overseeing bookings, maintenance, and support services. Further information about eligibility, application procedures, and upcoming events can be found on the foundation’s website.
