Campaigning Mum Dies After Brain Cancer Battle

Kim Borthwick, a 36-year-old mother of twins from Glasgow, has passed away following a courageous battle with aggressive brain cancer. Diagnosed in January with a glioblastoma, Borthwick initially dismissed her symptoms as overexertion during the Christmas holidays. Her condition rapidly worsened, leading to a diagnosis that highlighted significant gaps in brain cancer research and treatment.

Borthwick became a passionate campaigner, joining the Brain Cancer Justice group to urge for greater political support and funding for rare cancers. She pointed out that survival rates for brain cancer in the UK have stagnated for decades, unlike many other cancers. She specifically noted the lack of routine access to advanced treatments, such as the Optune device, and the failure to 'fresh-freeze' tumour samples for clinical trials in Scotland.

Her family announced her peaceful death, surrounded by loved ones, remembering her as a brave fighter. Borthwick's advocacy aimed to effect change for future patients, even though she recognized it was unlikely to benefit her directly. Her efforts underscored the critical need for a dedicated minister for rare cancers and improved treatment protocols. Many, including notable public figures, paid tribute to her impact and fierce love for life.