Facing a New Challenge: A Mother’s Courageous Battle
Table of Contents
- 1. Facing a New Challenge: A Mother’s Courageous Battle
- 2. Battling Recurring Cancer: A Patient’s Fight for Alternative Treatment
- 3. A Final Push: Mother Battles rapidly Growing Cancer
- 4. Facing Fear: A Mother’s unwavering Resolve
- 5. What alternative treatments is Rachel exploring in Germany, and what are her hopes for them?
A mother-of-two from Glasgow is fighting a harrowing battle against cancer, having recently received devastating news that it has spread to her lungs. Rachel Borthwick, wife of St johnstone footballer Graham Carey, is facing this challenging turn with immense bravery despite being in the midst of seeking treatment in Germany.
This is Rachel’s fourth encounter with cancer,a disease that has affected her life deeply. Steadfast to win this fight, Rachel launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for specialized treatment abroad. While she has successfully raised over £100,000 from generous supporters, the goal remains out of reach, with £50,000 still needed.
the news this week has been especially heartbreaking for Rachel. doctors discovered tiny, cancerous nodules in both lungs, shattering any lingering hope she may have had that it wouldn’t reach this critical point.
“My heart is shattered. my biggest fear has happened and I don’t have any words. I am completely numb to my core.
the [cancerous] nodules are tiny at the minute but I am absolutely devastated.
As much as I’m trying to stay positive, I always had in my head that if it [the cancer] went to any main organ, it would be a downward spiral from there.I can’t even take it in or process it, to be honest. Life is so, so unfair,”
shared rachel, her voice echoing the raw emotion and despair of the situation.
Despite the overwhelming odds facing her, Rachel remains a pillar of strength for her children, nine-year-old Jaxon and seven-year-old daughter Marlow. Her story is a testament to the indomitable spirit of a mother who refuses to surrender in the face of adversity.
Battling Recurring Cancer: A Patient’s Fight for Alternative Treatment
rachel’s journey began in 2021 when she, who was in “great health,” discovered a lump in her breast. Six weeks later, a devastating diagnosis of breast cancer changed everything.After a period of initial success, Rachel’s “worst nightmare” became reality when she found a new lump in her armpit, followed by another in the same area. Further tests revealed a fourth cancer diagnosis in November 2023.
Despite undergoing multiple rounds of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, Rachel’s cancer has remained persistent, refusing to be subdued by traditional treatments. Faced with this heartbreaking situation, Rachel has turned to alternative treatments available in Germany.
“So far I have found two places in Germany that look promising but I’m still in the middle of sending emails and discussing lots of information,” Rachel explained, highlighting her hope and cautious optimism.
However, the financial burden of these alternative therapies is immense. Rachel described the staggering £150,000 cost as “unfair”.
While she acknowledges the situation’s complexities, rachel remains fiercely determined. ”I’m not sure if it’s only the lungs they can target, but if so it means the cancer in my chest and muscle will continue to grow,” she explained, highlighting the need to find a solution that addresses all aspects of her illness.
A fundraising effort has been launched to help Rachel pursue these perhaps life-changing treatments in Germany. Despite the immense challenges she faces, Rachel finds solace in the support she has received. “I feel blessed to have raised money to pay for this treatment,” she shared, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of love and generosity from those around her.
A Final Push: Mother Battles rapidly Growing Cancer
Rachel’s life took a devastating turn when she received a cancer diagnosis. Despite leading a healthy lifestyle, she was struck with the disease without any warning signs.“I was at the gym all the time and I was fit and healthy,” Rachel shared. “My health was great prior to this – I barely even got a cold.”
This initial diagnosis was horrifying enough, but the shock deepened with subsequent diagnoses. “Being told I had cancer the first time was horrific, but another two times after is just indescribable,” Rachel confessed. The constant fear and anxiety have taken a heavy toll. “I now live in fear every single day and suffer from the worst anxiety,” she revealed.
Her cancer progresses rapidly, making time a precious commodity. “My cancer grows rapidly so time is against us,” Rachel explained. This urgency has driven her to embark on a desperate fight for survival.
The financial burden of treatment is immense, adding another layer of stress. “The cost for these treatments is so unfair,” she lamented. “I am so blessed to have some of the funds in my GoFundMe, but we need to raise more.” Rachel is determined to squeeze every possible moment out of life with her beloved children. “I cannot tell my kids I’m leaving them, it’s too soon.”
With a sense of urgency, Rachel is making a “final push” to raise the necessary funds for additional treatments.“One final push to pay for as many trips and treatments as I can over there. Every single second is precious to me,” she stated, emphasizing the gravity of her situation.
Facing Fear: A Mother’s unwavering Resolve
Rachel’s life was once defined by a vibrant energy. She thrived on the demands of daily life, hitting the gym regularly and rarely succumbing to illness. Then, cancer entered the picture with a devastating impact.
Diagnosed with the disease for the fourth time,Rachel faces a reality filled with fear and anxiety. But her greatest concern isn’t for herself. “It has had a massive effect on my children,” she admits, her voice heavy with emotion.
Open and honest with her children about her condition, Rachel knows they understand the gravity of the situation. Determined to protect them from worry,she expresses,“My children shouldn’t have to worry about a life with no mummy.”
Their well-being serves as her driving force, fueling her unwavering spirit. “They are my whole world, and I made a promise to them to fight this with every inch of my being,” she says, her gaze resolute. Each action she takes, each challenge she confronts, is a testament to that unwavering love and a commitment to a future where she can continue to be a present and loving mother.”everything I do is for them,” she affirms, her words radiating a strength born from both pain and devotion.
What alternative treatments is Rachel exploring in Germany, and what are her hopes for them?
Archyde Interview: Rachel Borthwick – A Mother’s Unyielding Battle Against Cancer
Archyde News Editor, Alex Thompson, recently had the opportunity to speak with Rachel Borthwick, a mother of two and wife of St. Johnstone footballer Graham Carey, about her brave journey battling cancer.Despite the heartbreaking news that the disease has spread to her lungs, Rachel’s resilience and determination remain unbroken.
Alex Thompson (AT): Rachel, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. We certainly know this is a challenging period for you and your family.
Rachel Borthwick (RB): Thank you for having me, Alex. It’s crucial to share my story to raise awareness and hopefully inspire others who might be going through something similar.
AT: you’ve faced cancer four times now. How have you managed to stay so strong and positive throughout this journey?
RB: It’s been incredibly difficult, and there have been moments were I’ve felt completely overwhelmed. But my children, Jaxon and Marlow, they’re my strength. I fight for them, and I want to be here for them. I also have an incredibly supportive family and an amazing community behind me.Their love and support have been a constant source of strength.
AT: Your recent diagnosis must have been devastating.Can you talk us through that moment?
RB: pauses It was…it was one of the worst moments of my life. To hear that the cancer had spread to my lungs, it felt like my world was crumbling. I’ve always feared this would happen, and when it did, I just felt… numb. Completely shattered. But after allowing myself some time to grieve, I reminded myself that I have a fight on my hands, and I can’t give up.
AT: You’ve been exploring alternative treatments in Germany. Can you tell us about that?
RB: Yes, traditional treatments haven’t stopped the cancer from coming back. So, I’ve started looking into alternative treatments abroad. I’ve found a few places in Germany that seem promising, and I’m currently in the process of gathering more details.It’s a cautious optimism,but I have to try everything I can to beat this.
AT: The cost of these treatments is astronomical. how are you coping with that aspect?
RB: It’s overwhelming, to be honest. £150,000 is an unimaginable amount for most people, let alone someone in my situation. But I’ve been blown away by the generosity of people who’ve contributed to my GoFundMe. We’ve raised over £100,000, wich is incredible, but we still need about £50,000 to reach our goal.Every little helps,and I’m grateful for every penny.
AT: You’ve become a pillar of strength for your children despite your own struggles. How do you manage that?
RB: some days are harder than others, and I’m not always great at hiding my emotions from them. But I try to focus on the positives and the little moments of joy.We laugh a lot, and we spend time together doing things they love. I want them to remember me as happy and strong, even when I’m feeling anything but.
AT: Rachel, your strength and resilience are truly inspiring. What message would you like to share with our readers?
RB: Thank you.I would say, never give up. If you or a loved one is fighting cancer, keep fighting. Keep researching, keep exploring options, and never feel ashamed to ask for help. And to those reading, please, if you can, consider donating to my GoFundMe. Every donation brings me one step closer to perhaps life-saving treatment.
AT: Thank you, Rachel. We’re all rooting for you.
RB: Thank you, Alex. I appreciate your support and the chance to share my story.
You can find Rachel’s GoFundMe page by searching “Rachel’s Cancer Battle” on the platform. Every donation brings hope and a step closer to a healthier Rachel for her family.
Archyde wishes rachel Borthwick all the strength and courage in the world as she continues her battle against cancer.
