Gemma Lowery, the mother of Bradley Lowery, has spoken out after footage showed a Coventry fan using a photograph of her late son to taunt Sunderland supporters. In a statement released through the Bradley Lowery Foundation, she described the action as 'heartbreaking'.
Bradley, who died in July 2017 at the age of six after battling neuroblastoma, a rare form of childhood cancer, became a beloved figure among Sunderland fans and football supporters nationwide. His legacy continues through the Bradley Lowery Foundation.
Mother's Emotional Response
In her statement, Gemma said: "My beautiful boy deserves to be remembered with love, not hate." She added: "Yesterday, a Coventry fan used a photograph of Bradley to taunt Sunderland supporters. As Bradley's mam, this is heartbreaking, especially as it's one of my favourite photographs of him. Just look at that smile."
She recalled the day the photograph was taken, saying: "I remember that day like it was yesterday. He was so happy, having so much fun. Those moments were precious because they were few and far between. So much of Bradley's short life was spent battling cancer and enduring treatments no child should ever face. To see such a beautiful memory used in such a cruel way really does make my heart hurt."
Call for Love and Respect
Gemma's statement calls for her son to be remembered with love rather than hate, highlighting the pain caused by the taunt. The incident has drawn attention to the ongoing need for respect in football stands.
