Support needed: Meyersdal family battles financial strain of dementia care
Once known for his sense of humour and zest for life, Marius Grobbelaar now suffers from brain damage that has drastically changed his life for the worse.

The Grobbelaar family, residents of Meyersdal since 2001, calls on the community for support to place their beloved father and husband, Marius (57), in a care facility.
The family is struggling to meet the financial demands of his medical care after he was diagnosed with vascular dementia last October.
Marius is a devoted husband to Cheryl and father to Symone.
His diagnosis came after months of worrying symptoms, including a loss of confidence, difficulty with daily tasks like driving or using his phone, and rapid weight loss.
Extensive medical tests at the Netcare Mulbarton Hospital revealed vascular dementia, likely caused by his diabetes.
“Learning about the diagnosis was life-changing. My dad has always embraced life and brought joy to others,” shared Symone.
A rapid decline
In late November 2024, Marius had a seizure in his sleep that required emergency hospitalisation.
He spent seven weeks at the Netcare Mulbarton Hospital, including time in high care, ICU and a general ward, before being transferred to the Nurture rehabilitation facility in Newmarket.

His condition has since significantly deteriorated, leaving him unable to walk, stand or care for himself.
A family’s love and devotion
His family has been by his side, providing constant support and love.
“We’ve been told Dad has suffered brain damage, possibly due to dementia or the seizure. He struggles to recognise us, follow instructions or perform basic tasks. It’s heartbreaking to watch his rapid decline,” Symone explained.
Marius now needs constant professional care, which his family cannot provide at home. To ensure he gets it, the De Freitas family made the difficult decision to place him at Avanteco, an assisted living facility in Randburg.
A life of adventure and impact
Before his illness, Marius led an active and fulfilling life. As the head of sales in Africa for the American company SineTamer, he travelled extensively, training teams and implementing advanced power solutions in factories across the continent.

His passion for people and his work made him a respected figure in his field.
Marius was also deeply involved in his community. As a Soldiers for Jesus motorcycle club member, he participated in charity work for orphanages and old age homes.
Known for his sense of humour, zest for life, and love of photography, Marius touched countless lives.
“He was the life of the party. My dad could befriend anyone. He loved riding his bike, spending time with family and sharing his faith with others,” Symone recalled.
The family’s plea for help
With Cheryl unable to work because she cares for Marius, the family faces mounting financial challenges.
The assisted living facility requires expenses for nappies, medication, toiletries and other additional costs.
The family’s medical plan does not cover ambulance transport or some of Marius’ other critical needs.
In response, the family has launched a BackaBuddy campaign to raise funds for Marius’ care. The family is trying to raise R200 000 and asks for the community’s help to ensure he receives the necessary support while easing the burden on Cheryl, who has tirelessly cared for him.
According to Symone, the R200 000 will cover Marius’ assisted living facility bill and necessities for two years.
“Part of the money will also help my mom during this time,” said Symone.
The family invites anyone who knows Marius or was touched by his kindness and generosity to contribute to their campaign.
Every donation, no matter how small, will make a significant difference in giving Marius the care and dignity he deserves.
“Despite everything, we trust that God has a plan for our lives and my dad’s life. We’re holding onto hope and making the most of the time we have with him,” said Symone.
For more information, call Symone on 084 034 9691.
To support the campaign, visit www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/caring-for-marius