FOOTBALL fans have applauded a generous donation from Everton FC which has seen the family of a seriously ill North-East boy move one step closer to securing potentially life-saving treatment for him.
Supporters of Sunderland and Everton raised £5,200 from collections at Monday night’s game at the Stadium of Light in aid of Bradley Lowery, who suffers from a rare form of cancer, neuroblastoma.
But that figure was blown away when moments after the final whistle a donation of £200,000 was announced from the Merseyside club, who are backed by Iranian billionaire Farhad Moshiri.
Everton manager Ronald Koeman tweeted: “Great from our chairman!”
The gesture means the family have now raised the £700,000 they need for Bradley's initial treatment in the USA, but are they continuing to fundraise to cover the cost of travel, accommodation and if any unexpected complications arise.
Five-year-old Bradley from Blackhall Colliery, County Durham, who suffered a relapse in July this year, got to meet star striker Jermain Defoe as one of the mascots at the game, which Sunderland lost 3-0.
Supporters of both clubs sung 'there's only one Bradley Lowery', before a banner carrying the message, 'We're with you, Bradley' was carried around the stadium.
Afterwards on social media some Sunderland fans said Everton were welcome to the three points, given the generous donation by the club.
On Twitter Luke McLoughlin said: “Blown away by Everton donating £200k to young Bradley Lowery. Classy club.”
Danielle McKie said: “What an amazing club Everton for donating £200k to Bradley’s fund. Absolutely unbelievable.”
Daniel Danwba said: “Bradley Lowery puts life into perspective and its fantastic how football comes together for things like that.”
The family, who are being assisted in their fund raising efforts by Hartlepool Round Table, said they appreciated the ongoing support they had received.
Lynn Murphy, a spokeswoman for Bradley’s parents Carl and Gemma, said: "We are absolutely elated with the generosity of not only Sunderland, but from Everton.
“There are no words to describe how grateful we all are.”
To find out more about Bradley visit http://bradleylowerysfight.org.uk/ To donate online visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/BradleysFight
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