Nils Amelinckx Passes Away After Courageous Battle with Cancer
Words: Rider Resilience
It is with great sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Nils Amelinckx, the
visionary behind Rider Resilience and Lyon Cycle. Nils, a cherished friend, respected colleague, and a
source of inspiration for many, lost his valiant six-and-a-half-year battle against stage four bowel
cancer. His departure leaves an irreplaceable void in our lives and in the broader community he
touched.
Nils' journey was characterized by unmatched resilience, boundless kindness, and a talent for
sharing inspirational stories. He wasn't just a leader; he embodied resilience and hope. Confronting
his own adversity, Nils established Rider Resilience, an initiative aimed at turning personal hardships
into a wellspring of strength for those facing a multitude of challenges, all through the power of
bicycles.
Diagnosed at the tender age of 30 with incurable stage four bowel cancer, Nils faced a prognosis that
allowed him only five years to live. Undeterred, he set audacious goals that surpassed conventional
boundaries. Remarkably, Nils not only achieved these aspirations but fiercely battled his illness until
the very end, surpassing expectations and inspiring us all.
“Nils has been an inspiration to us all at Lyon both as a colleague and personal friend. His fortitude
and “can do” attitude in dealing with the worse-than-life can throw at you has humbled every one of us.
Nils made me realize that growing old is a privilege. If I am ever asked for the definition of Resilience
I will simply say Nils Amelinckx.”
- Jonathan Capper, Lyon Equipment Managing Director and friend.
As we come to terms with the magnitude of this loss, we encourage everyone to draw inspiration
from Nils's enduring spirit. Embrace the outdoors, cherish each fleeting moment, and celebrate the
life of a man who wished his legacy to be one of joy, not sorrow.
and “can do” attitude in dealing with the worse-than-life can throw at you has humbled every one of us.
Nils made me realize that growing old is a privilege. If I am ever asked for the definition of Resilience
I will simply say Nils Amelinckx.”
- Jonathan Capper, Lyon Equipment Managing Director and friend.
As we come to terms with the magnitude of this loss, we encourage everyone to draw inspiration
from Nils's enduring spirit. Embrace the outdoors, cherish each fleeting moment, and celebrate the
life of a man who wished his legacy to be one of joy, not sorrow.
Support the Amelinckx Family
Nils is survived by his loving wife, Laura, and their two children, Lotte and Leo. Our thoughts and
deepest condolences are with them and his wider family during this incredibly challenging time.
The teams at Rider Resilience and Lyon Equipment recognize that processing this profound loss will
take time and we appreciate your patience as we navigate through our grief. Please bear with us as
we pay tribute to Nils's memory and legacy.
Rest in Peace, Nils. Your absence is already felt, but your spirit will forever live on in our hearts and in
the enduring missions of Rider Resilience and Lyon Cycle.
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An MD I listen to regularly (Dr. Peter Attia - "The Drive" podcast) recently described deaths from gastrointestinal and skin cancers as "unforced errors" for our healthcare system, which I think is a brilliant way to put it. Assuming you have a healthcare provider that will work with you - ask for screenings early and keep doing them every 2-3 years depending on family history and your appetite for risk.
Luckily for me, it turned out to just be tiny stones in the gall bladder. A quick surgery at some adjustment to my diet later and I'm "fixed", and thankful as can be for that. Stories like this one hit so close to home after wondering for endless nights in hospital about what may come with the next test result...
Cancer is a horrible thing.
I will check out Dr. Attia's podcast.
My dad lives on the other side of the country. It's hard being so far away. I'm calling more often and sending care packages and gifts. It's not the same as being there in person though.
Thank you for your kind words @WhateverBikes
Your message gave me some things to think about, and you're right about the hugs... I'll book a ticket to see & hug him soon!
I hope you and your family are having a good holiday season!
Live brings what it brings, I guess it's up to us to just make the best of it all.
All the best for your father and all who love and support him.
And all the best for you and your family as well! xox
Tragically Nils leaves a young family behind and to help them live well and have more adventures as Nils would have wanted, a GoFundMe page has been set up.
I hope nobody minds me sharing the link but if you feel compelled to contribute, I know that it would be enormously appreciated.
www.gofundme.com/f/nils-final-wishes
My big question is why the sudden increase in colon/bowel cancer?
I've had my first colonoscopy a couple years ago, yes it sucks but this shows the alternative can be much, much worse.
Also absolutely f+#?~ cancer