CAPE TOWN – Marius du Preez achieved his first milestone as he embarks on upgraded R250 000 fundraising adventure.
After we featured his inspiring “Suffer for Joy” charity initiative in January the 58-year-old Durbanville cyclist has begun his epic 7 000 km solo bike-packing adventure across Southern Africa and already achieved his first major milestone.
On Monday 2 March 2026, as Marius set off on his gruelling unsupported journey, he celebrated a significant achievement: the first donation handover of R25 000 to Die Herberg Children’s Home in Robertson, Western Cape.
The response to Marius’ original story has been so encouraging he has increased his fundraising target from the original R120 000 to an ambitious R250 000. This enhanced goal will provide even more birthday celebrations and support for the 120 abused, abandoned and vulnerable children at the Herberg facility.
The initial donation represents just the beginning. As Marius travels through Southern Africa every kilometre he covers brings these vulnerable children closer to experiencing birthday celebrations they’ve never had – complete with cakes, candles, and gifts.
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Photos from the handover show the official bank transfer of R25 000, marked clearly with “SUFFER for JOY”, tangible proof that this ambitious fundraising journey is already making a real difference in young lives.
How you can help
With R25 000 already secured and R225 000 still to raise the success of this first milestone proves that the community believes in Marius’s mission. Every contribution brings these children closer to experiencing the joy of their first real birthday celebration.
Follow Marius’ progress: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/marius.dupreez.566/
As he faces the challenges ahead, his message remains clear: every hardship he endures translates directly into joy for children who desperately need it.
Die Herberg Children’s Home in Robertson continues to provide crucial care for vulnerable children across the Western Cape. This fundraising initiative represents a community coming together to ensure every child experiences the simple joy of a birthday celebration.
