Former England goalkeeper Amy Carr dies aged 35 after brain tumour battle
Former England youth, Arsenal and Chelsea goalkeeper Amy Carr has died at the age of 35 following a long battle with a brain tumour.
The talented shot-stopper was initially diagnosed with the illness in 2015 after a severe reaction to seeing a spider prompted medical investigations.
An MRI scan subsequently revealed a mass described as being the size of a golf ball.
“I knew I didn’t like spiders, but blacking out seemed like an extreme response. I’d never reacted that way to anything before.”
Remarkable recovery and fundraising
The ex-Reading player underwent a craniotomy in an attempt to remove as much of the mass as possible.
This invasive procedure initially left her unable to walk or talk for eight days.
She subsequently endured gruelling courses of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, alongside extensive physiotherapy to rebuild her mobility and speech.
Demonstrating incredible resilience, the former professional managed to complete the Dublin Marathon in 2024.
Her extraordinary athletic achievement raised £28,718 for Brain Tumour Research to help fund vital scientific studies.
Tributes paid to incredible strength
Brain Tumour Research released a statement expressing their deep sadness at her passing, while praising her remarkable courage.
“Amy showed incredible strength and determination after being diagnosed with a high-grade brain tumour in 2015.”
The charity extended their sympathies to her loved ones and thanked her for her monumental fundraising efforts.
“Our thoughts are with Amy’s family, friends and everyone who loved her. We are so grateful for the awareness she raised and the difference she made.”
Fans and the wider footballing community have since poured in tributes across social media for the popular 35-year-old.
