Reece Winterbottom: Young footballers to pay respects to Sheffield teenager after cancer battle

Reece Winterbottom from Beighton, was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2012 when he was seven years old.

The ‘brave’ and ‘loving’ teenager’s diagnosis came just months after his mum, Kirsty, tragically died from skin cancer.

He was given the all-clear during his cancer battle but a routine check-up last year revealed that the tumour had returned and this time was malignant and a rare, very aggressive form of cancer.

Reece lost his fight for life on Monday, May 3 at Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, aged 16.

Sheffield United fan Reece played grassroots football for Killamarsh Dynamos U16s.

As a mark of respect, the Sheffield and District Junior Sunday Football League has passed on its thoughts to all of Reece's family and friends and has asked teams playing this weekend to hold a minute’s applause or silence as a mark of respect.

The teenager’s heartbroken dad, David, described Reece as ‘such a loving, caring person’ who was ‘always so polite and never had a bad word to say about anyone’.

“You couldn’t hope to meet a nicer child” he said.

He said Reece ‘loved life’ and ‘never moaned about anything’.

The Westfield School pupil got the chance to meet Sheffield United players and step onto the pitch at Bramall Lane a few weeks before he died.

In a tribute to Reece, Killamarsh Dynamos said: “We are so incredibly upset to hear the sad news of the passing of Reece Winterbottom.

“16-year-old Reece sadly lost his battle with cancer at Bluebell Wood following an extremely brave fight.

“In 2017, we presented Reece our ‘Club Person of the Year’ award for the courage and bravery he showed towards his treatment; such an inspirational, strong, determined, positive attitude from such a young person.

“Our thoughts are with Reece's family at this terribly sad and difficult time.”

Reece’s family has set up two fundraising appeals in his memory to show their gratitude for the care he received.

To donate to Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, visit: https://gofund.me/6828a545.

To donate to The Children’s Hospital Charity, visit: https://gofund.me/31f6ce36.

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