Courageous South Shields teenager Drew Broderick dies after brave battle with cancer

Drew Broderick, 14, sadly died on Tuesday, December 3, after a three-year-fight with leukaemia.

Diagnosed at the age of just 10, Drew embarked on years of treatment which finished in January this year.

But just a matter of months later, in April, he was given the devastating news that he had relapsed.

A Year 10 pupil at St Wilfrid’s R.C. College in South Shields, the school announced the sad news on their Facebook page.

In the post, a school spokesman said: “Today, we have received some sad news in school about one of our Year 10 Students.

“As many of you may already know, Drew Broderick has been very poorly following a relapse of his cancer.

“His parents have informed us today that Drew has lost his battle and died this morning. (Tuesday, December 3.)

“This is a sad time for the whole school community.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Drew’s family and close friends.”

Drew, from Harton, was a huge Sunderland AFC fan and had played football for the Whiteleas Pumas.

The news of his death has touched hearts of people in the football community.

Paying tribute to the youngster, Sunderland AFC fansite Roker Report said: “We were incredibly saddened to hear that massive Sunderland AFC fan Drew Broderick lost his battle with cancer earlier today, he was just 14 years old.

“Our thoughts are with all of his family and friends at this difficult time. #TeamDrew”

Newcastle United FC Fans also paid tribute to Drew, saying: “We would like to pay tribute to Drew Broderick aged only 14, he lost his brave fight against cancer.

“Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”

Throughout his cancer fight Drew was known for his positive attitude and dedication to helping others despite everything he was dealing with.

He raised funds for local charities such as Alex’s Angels Foundation, The Charlie Cookson Foundation and Caring For Kian.

Family and friends showed their support for his efforts by sharing the hashtag, #TeamDrew.

And in September this year Drew’s bravery was recognised when he won a Best of South Tyneside Child of Courage Award.

His nomination said: "He is a fourteen year old child going through treatment for cancer but taking it on the chin at every step."