Footballer Graham Carey's Partner Rachel Borthwick Dies at 37 After Cancer Fight
Rachel Borthwick, the partner of Scottish footballer Graham Carey, has tragically died at the age of 37 following a courageous four-year battle with triple-negative breast cancer. She passed away on Sunday, March 22, in Delhi, India, where she had travelled for additional medical treatment, with her parents by her side.
A Brave and Relentless Battle
Rachel was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer in September 2021 after discovering a lump. Despite initially completing treatment and being informed her cancer was undetectable by March 2023, additional tumours were found, leading to a prolonged and aggressive fight. Her sister Sarah described Rachel's struggle as a "brave and relentless battle" that lasted over four years, during which she faced every challenge with strength and courage without complaint.
In a heartfelt social media post, Graham Carey expressed his grief, saying, "Our babies will always remember how unbelievably strong and brave you have been until the very end. I know you will always be looking down on them, protecting them, and guiding them. They can take some comfort that their mummy is no longer in any pain and can now rest in peace. We will always love you more than you could ever know."
Journey to India for Treatment
Rachel made the difficult decision to seek treatment in India after believing there were no further options available in the UK. Her sister Sarah explained that Rachel was determined to keep fighting for herself and her two children, a determination that defined her until the end. Sarah added, "Rachel fought an incredibly brave and relentless four-and-a-half-year battle with triple-negative breast cancer. She faced every challenge with strength, courage, and without complaint, giving everything she had for as long as she could. Sadly, the cancer was very aggressive and had progressed significantly, and in the end it became too much for her body to endure."
The family has requested privacy during this incredibly difficult time, while also thanking everyone for their support through donations, messages, prayers, and kindness.
Football Community Offers Condolences
The football world has rallied around Graham Carey and his family, with several clubs expressing their condolences. Dunfermline Athletic, where Carey currently plays, released a statement saying, "Everyone at Dunfermline Athletic was hugely saddened to learn of the passing of Rachel Borthwick, partner of Pars player Graham Carey. Our thoughts are with Rachel's family and friends at this devastating time. Rest in Peace, Rachel."
St Johnstone FC, where Carey previously played, also shared their sympathies: "We are devastated to learn of the passing of Graham Carey's partner, Rachel. The thoughts and love of everyone at St Johnstone Football Club are with Graham and his family at this very sad time. Rest in peace, Rachel." Similarly, Plymouth Argyle extended their condolences to their former midfielder and his family.
Rachel Borthwick is remembered as a deeply loved daughter, granddaughter, sister, mother, auntie, niece, cousin, and friend, whose absence leaves an irreplaceable void.
