Rachel Borthwick, 37, was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer in 2021 and sadly passed away on Sunday, with her partner Graham Carey of Dunfermline Athletic sharing a heartfelt tribute on social mediaRuth Suter Chief Live News Reporter and Andrew E Quinn Audience Editor
15:20, 25 Mar 2026
Rachel Borthwick.
The partner of Irish footballer, Graham Carey, has tragically passed away aged 37 following a courageous fight against cancer.
Rachel Borthwick died on Sunday, March 22. The mother-of-two received her triple-negative breast cancer diagnosis after discovering a lump in September 2021. She died in Delhi, India, with her parents present, having journeyed to the country seeking additional treatment options.
Graham, 36, who is from Blanchardstown, Co. Dublin and plays for Dunfermline Athletic, confirmed her heartbreaking death on Wednesday.
In a moving social media tribute the former Republic of Ireland U21 and Bohemians FC player wrote: “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.”
Rachel, 35, from North Lanarkshire, discovered a tumour in March 2023 merely 12 months after completing her treatment for triple-negative breast cancer. She had previously been informed her cancer had become undetectable, reports the Daily Record.
Tragically, additional tumours were subsequently found. Her sister Sarah described how Rachel mounted a “brave and relentless battle” spanning more than four years.
Graham pictured with Rachel.
Rachel sadly passed away on Sunday
In an online statement, she wrote: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share an update about our beloved Rachel. 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 added: “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.
Graham Carey playing for the Republic of Ireland U17s in 2006.
Rachel’s partner Graham confirmed her sad passing on Wednesday.
“Please continue to keep Rachel and her loved ones in your thoughts and prayers and respect their privacy at this incredibly difficult time.”
The football community has since come together to extend their condolences to Rachel’s family and friends.
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.”
St Johnstone FC also released a statement saying: “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, where Graham previously played, also sent their condolences.
Their statement reads: “We all send our deepest condolences to Graham’s family at this heartbreaking time. Rest in peace, Rachel.”
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