STORIES
We aim to build a library of stories from the bike community to inspire others to keep spinning through times of adversity.
Do you have a story to share?
Complete the form at the bottom of the page!
The following stories are written by you, by us, and by our Rider Resilience advocates. Here, stories become more than just words on a page, they embody the spirit of RESILIENCE, courage and determination. From unforeseen obstacles, dealing with ongoing challenges to triumphs, these stories provide an insight into the perspective that defines the riding community. Within these stories, we find solace, inspiration, and collective strength.
Written By You: From Heart Failure to Pedal Power
Nick’s story - from heart failure, then heart transplant, to bike packing.
Written By You: Pedalling Through Pain and Inflammation
This is Brett’s story of cycling with Chronic Inflammatory Rheumatoid Arthritis
Katie Love - A Love Story
Written by Dean Hersey, this is the story of Katie’s resilience, her ongoing battle with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, and how cycling is the bellow for her flame. Despite her fluctuating health and the risks, she uses her bike for physical and mental therapy.
Ash Griffiths - Weathering the Storm
Ash was walking his dog when he was struck by a falling tree during Storm Eunice. This story describes his journey of resilience throughout his prolonged recovery. Words by Dean Hersey.
Written By You: Steve Bate, Losing Your Sight From the Age of 34
Steve Bate is a New Zealand-British Paralympian athlete based in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire, UK. At the age of 34, he was told he had a degenerative disease that meant he would eventually lose his sight altogether. This is his story of RESILIENCE and how a positive mindset can turn a pretty dark situation into a gold medal winning legacy.
Nils Amelinckx, Rider Resilience Founder
Nils Amelinckx is the founder of Rider Resilience. This story, first printed in the incredible Sidetracked Magazine, details Nils’ backstory and helps to explain the ethos behind how riding bikes gave Nils the resilience to face the adversity in his life.
Interview: Andy McKenna, Stoked on MS Founder
Andy McKenna is a 51 year old legend within the UK mountain biking community who lives in the Scottish village of Clovenfords. He traded corporate life for a completely different lifestyle surrounding bikes and shared experiences in the mountains following his diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis back in 2007. Despite the challenges of his condition, he’s able to retain his infectious laugh and still finds his solace in the hills aboard his Santa Cruz Heckler.
Share Your Story.
Rider Resilience intends to become a support circle, a pool of inspiration from which to draw strength and motivation.
WRITTEN BY YOU is where the narratives are penned by the very individuals who have experienced the challenges and triumphs of riding through adversity firsthand, offering a unique and authentic glimpse into their journeys.
If you have ever found yourself turning to your bike to regain solace, we would love to hear your story.