A Portadown community is mourning the loss of an inspirational husband, father, coach and friend following the passing of Andy Cannon, who died peacefully on Saturday after a courageous battle with cancer.
Andy, originally from Kendal, made Portadown his home with his wife Nicola and their children, Billy and Jess.
A keen swimmer and adventurer, Andy had long dreamed of taking on one of the most gruelling endurance feats in the world: swimming the North Channel from Northern Ireland to Scotland.
That dream was within reach in early 2024 when he was offered the chance to join a relay team tackling the icy waters — a challenge he previously described as “the challenge of a lifetime”.
But just months later, everything changed.
In the summer of 2024, Andy was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer with bone metastasis. His health deteriorated rapidly, and what had once seemed possible became almost unimaginable. By the time he began treatment that September, simply getting out of bed was a daily challenge.
And yet, true to his character, Andy didn’t give up.
Supported by Macmillan Cancer Support, whom he described as a “lifeline”, Andy began to fight back. From the paperwork and appointments to the emotional toll of serious illness, Macmillan stood by his side — giving him the space to focus on one goal at a time.
In November, Andy returned to the ocean. A short 20-metre swim, but for him, it meant everything. That moment rekindled his belief.
“That tiny swim sparked something in me – a belief that I could still be part of the relay team,” he said. “This challenge means more to me than just swimming. It’s a symbol of hope and determination.”
Despite ongoing treatment and the difficult news that his immunotherapy had failed, Andy never wavered in his determination to live life to the full — to be present for his family, to train when he could, and to inspire others.
His message was simple and powerful: “We can still chase our dreams.”
Andy was also a dedicated rugby coach at Portadown RFC, guiding his son Billy and many other young players through Mini Rugby and Youth teams.
Earlier on Sunday, the club paid tribute to Andy as “a dear friend” who gave his time generously, not just on the pitch but as a steady and proud supporter on the sidelines.
“Everyone at PRFC are saddened to hear of the passing of our dear friend Andy Cannon this morning after a brave battle with illness. Our thoughts and prayers are with Nicola, Billy, Jess and all of the family.”
Andy’s impact was far-reaching — from the pool to the rugby field, from his local community to all those inspired by his cancer journey.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife Nicola, children Billy and Jess, parents Dennis and Jean, sister Sue, and the extended Whitten family. His warmth, courage and quiet determination will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Funeral arrangements to follow.
The family has asked for no flowers, and instead donations in Andy’s memory can be made to Macmillan Cancer Support and the Respiratory Unit at Craigavon Area Hospital via Alan Wray & Co., 24a Portmore Street, Portadown, BT62 3NG.
