The tragic death of Rachel Borthwick, partner of Dunfermline Athletic footballer Graham Carey, has prompted a significant increase in donations to a memorial fundraiser aimed at supporting her two children. Borthwick passed away on Sunday at CK Birla Hospital in Delhi, India, where she had travelled for treatment after being diagnosed with breast cancer more than four years ago.
Heartbreaking Announcement and Family Tributes
Carey announced the devastating news on Wednesday, expressing that he was "heartbroken beyond words." In an emotional Instagram post, he described the pain of explaining to their children that their mother would not be returning home. He wrote, "No words can describe the pain and sadness of having to explain to my babies that their beautiful Mummy and best friend will not be coming home." Carey added that Borthwick was a deeply loved family member and friend, whose absence leaves an irreplaceable void.
Fundraiser Redirected to Support Children
Organisers of the GoFundMe campaign, originally established in 2023 to assist with Borthwick's medical expenses, have confirmed that all donations will now be directed towards supporting her children. Since the news of her death emerged, there has been a fresh wave of contributions, bringing the total raised to over £150,000. A spokesperson for GoFundMe noted, "We have seen a fresh wave of support for Rachel's campaign following the news of her death in India, with donors coming together to help her family during this heart-breaking time."
Football Community and Official Responses
Dunfermline Athletic, where Carey is currently on loan from Livingston, expressed profound sadness in a statement on X, offering condolences to Borthwick's family and friends. Other clubs associated with Carey's career, including Livingston, Ross County, and St Johnstone, also paid tribute. Additionally, a Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office spokesperson confirmed that they are providing support to the family and are in contact with local authorities in India regarding the death.
The fundraiser continues to accept donations, with the goal of ensuring financial stability for Borthwick's children as they cope with this immense loss.
