We are devastated to share the news that the wonderful Bradley Addison has sadly passed away aged just 18.
A committed Acorns Ambassador and huge Aston Villa fan, Bradley was a well-known and loved by all of us at Acorns.
Having supported Bradley and his family since he was three years old at our Birmingham hospice, we saw Bradley grow into the funny, determined and kind-hearted young man he was. We will never forget his infectious smile and cheeky sense of humour.
Bradley had Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and although the condition limited him physically in many ways, he achieved a phenomenal amount during his life. A talented powerchair football player, winning numerous trophies with WBA Throstles and Villa Rockets, Bradley also won Child of Courage at the Pride of Birmingham Awards 2017.
One of Bradley’s greatest achievements was when, in his role as Acorns Ambassador, he welcomed HRH Prince William to Acorns in 2018 for our 30th anniversary. Bradley gave a tour of our Birmingham hospice, during which he talked passionately, sharing with the Prince our work and what it means to families.
Over the years, Bradley made many happy memories at Acorns. Spending time at the hospice he particularly enjoyed the hydrotherapy pool and was always there to welcome players from Aston Villa FC on their many visits. Some of Bradley’s fondest moments at Acorns were playing Xbox with one of his favourite Villa players, Gabby Agbonlahor, which he did on numerous occasions. One Villa visit in particular will stick in the memory thanks to Bradley, and featured John Terry, Jack Grealish and a well-placed whoopie cushion! It was a prank even Prince William remarked on when he met Bradley at the hospice.
Bradley made an impression on everyone who met him, and he will be sadly missed by the whole Acorns family.
