Scottish footballer Graham Carey has announced the death of his partner, Rachel Borthwick, saying he has been left “heartbroken”. Borthwick, a mum-of-two, had been diagnosed with an incurable form of breast cancer after finding a lump in September 2021.
Carey, a Dunfermline forward, shared the news of his “best friend’s” passing on social media on Wednesday.
Rachel Borthwick’s Battle with Cancer
Rachel Borthwick sought treatment in India, believing there were no further options in the UK. She died at CK Birla Hospital in Delhi, with her parents at her bedside.
Carey wrote on social media: “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.”
Raising Awareness
After her diagnosis, Rachel Borthwick spoke to STV News, saying she wanted her story to raise awareness and encourage other women to get checked. She said she had been “inundated with messages”.
She previously stated: “I wanted to use my journey to help people save their own lives. I have people contacting me to say, ‘I never checked myself until I’ve seen your post and I’ve found a lump’.”
The “deeply loved” mum’s passing has prompted tributes and renewed calls for cancer awareness.