Rachel, a mum, has tragically passed away
The partner of Scottish footballer Graham Carey has died at the age of 37 following a prolonged battle with cancer.
Rachel Borthwick, a mother of two, passed away on Sunday (March 22), in Delhi, India, where she had travelled in search of further treatment options. She was diagnosed with triple‑negative breast cancer after discovering a lump in September 2021.
Carey, who plays for Dunfermline Athletic, confirmed her death on Wednesday, paying tribute to her courage throughout her illness. “Our babies will always remember how unbelievably strong and brave you have been until the very end,” Graham posted on social media, adding, “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.”
In March 2023, then aged 35, Rachel found a tumour around a year after finishing her treatment for triple-negative breast cancer. At the time, she was told her cancer had become undetectable, but further tumours were discovered.
Her sister Sarah recalled how Rachel put up a “brave and relentless battle” for more than four years, in a tribute posted online. “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share an update about our beloved Rachel,” the sister said.
“On Sunday, March 22 at 11.06pm local time, Rachel passed away peacefully at CK Birla Hospital in Delhi, India, with her parents by her side. 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.
“Rachel made the decision to travel to India for treatment because she believed there were no further options available to her in the UK. She was determined to keep fighting for as long as possible—for herself, and most importantly, for her children. That determination, hope, and love defined her until the very end.”
Sarah continued: “We are heartbroken beyond words. Rachel was a deeply loved daughter, granddaughter, sister, mother, auntie, niece, cousin and friend, and the space she leaves behind can never be filled. We want to thank everyone who has supported Rachel throughout her journey—through donations, messages, prayers, and kindness. It meant more to her, and to all of us, than we can ever truly express.
“Please continue to keep Rachel and her loved ones in your thoughts and prayers and respect their privacy at this incredibly difficult time.”
Since the announcement of Rachel’s death, there has been an outpouring of support from the footballing world to rally around her family.
A statement from Dunfermline Athletic reads: “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.”
Another statement from St Johnstone FC reads: “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.”
Plymouth Argyle also sent their regards to their former midfield star Graham and his family, saying “We all send our deepest condolences to Graham’s family at this heartbreaking time. Rest in peace, Rachel.”

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