From Noosa’s coastline to the English Channel, swimmer Madisyn Armstrong is turning her family’s cancer journey into a mission of hope and support.
Noosa Swimmer Sets Sights on English Channel to Honour Father’s Cancer Battle
A Sunshine Coast swimmer backed by the Noosa Swimming Club is preparing to swim the English Channel to honour her father’s fight with incurable cancer. Originally from the Gold Coast, 24-year-old Madisyn Armstrong now lives and trains in Noosa as she builds towards the 33-kilometre challenge in 2026.
A Personal Mission Sparked by a Family Crisis
Madisyn’s decision came after her father, Steven Armstrong, was diagnosed with stage four cancer in late 2023. The cancer began in his kidney and has since spread to his lungs and liver. The news, delivered in a phone call one Wednesday evening, shook her world. She immediately sensed something was wrong before her dad told her, “I’ve got cancer.”
Since then, Madisyn has drawn strength from her father’s attitude. Despite his diagnosis, he’s remained calm and optimistic. His courage inspired her to take on the swim as a tribute to his strength and as a way to make a difference.
Training in Noosa, Fuelled by Purpose
With support from the Noosa Swimming Club, Madisyn has returned to open water training. A former national-level swimmer, she’s shifting her focus to endurance in preparation for the Channel’s cold water, tough currents and unpredictable conditions.
She says the swim is more than a personal goal—it’s a way to support families like hers and to shine a light on the importance of cancer research.
Funding for Research and Treatment
Madisyn has launched a GoFundMe campaign to support her father’s treatment and to help cover the swim’s costs. Part of the proceeds will go to Cure Cancer Australia, a cause close to her heart.
She credits advances in immunotherapy with giving her dad more time and a better quality of life. She hopes her journey encourages others to support research that could save lives.
Published 27-March-2025