It is with deep sadness that we learn of the death of Dr Nicolas Riand, esteemed physician, and we join in the condolences of his large and beloved family. Dr Riand died of cardiac arrest on the night of Saturday 21 April.
His sudden death leaves a huge void for his loved ones and all those who knew him. Dr Nicolas Riand, orthopaedic surgeon, was an exceptional professional and human being, passionate about caring for people, whom he always knew how to appreciate and make unique by finding a place in his heart for them. His great competence and human approach made him an important point of reference for those who came into contact with him.
In addition to his work at the clinic in the canton of Valais, Nicolas Riand devoted much of his time to humanitarian missions in Cameroon. After several years of voluntary work, he and his friend Arnaud Lemercier founded the Hôpital Galagala association. In Cameroon, Riand and his colleagues operated on and cared for dozens of disadvantaged patients, bringing help and availability to those who needed it most. Convinced of the value of such gestures, Medacta International, Medacta for Life Foundation and the Siccardi family have contributed on several occasions with donations of prostheses and financial support (see article).
His professionalism, intelligence, empathy and contagious smile will be deeply missed. He was a colleague, a collaborator, a dear friend to many of us and an example of dedication and selflessness.
At this time of great sadness, our first thoughts are with his beloved wife, children, family and close friends.
To honour Dr Riand’s memory and to ensure that his great human work continues as he would have wished, Medacta for Life Foundation is making a donation to the Galagala Hospital Association.