Martin receives a warm welcome, family happy to have him back

Martin van der Vyver, who embarked on a journey to Italy for mental health awareness, received a hero’s welcome when he returned to Boksburg on September 2 after facing many obstacles on his crossing through Africa.

Van der Vyver started the journey with his brother, Clinton Delport, who is now well on his way to recovery after breaking his ankle in an accident in Namibia three days into the trip.

Upon Van der Vyver’s arrival in SA, his family, friends, and supporters got together at his security company in Dayanglen for a surprise braai.

“I was forced to return after authorities accused me of being a spy because of challenges such as my GPS leading me to a dead end as I was trying to travel out of Congo to the Gabon border.

“Even before that, my bike was low on fuel, and the town I was in, Djambala, didn’t accept Visa cards, exchange foreign currency and didn’t have petrol,” he added.

After what he called a rough journey, Van der Vyver is delighted to be back in his home country.

“It is amazing to be back into civilisation. I missed my people. I like to have others around me, so it wasn’t nice to be alone,” he pointed out.

The encouraging messages and support on Facebook kept Van der Vyver going through difficult times, such as harsh road conditions and robberies.

“The trip opened my eyes in more ways than one. It changed my life and, hopefully, many others, too. I can honestly say this was the most memorable experience I’ve had to face alone, and it has not only made me stronger but also wiser,” he added.

Van der Vyver said he hoped his message, It’s okay not to be okay, will stay in the hearts and minds of millions.

He thanked his family, his supporters, Eric Bothma and James Dent and sponsors such as BK Official Eyewear, MRE International Meals, Pick n Pay Oakfields, Mario Vingos, Savva Skordis, Ethlia Travel, Buffalo Motorcycles, Bikeshop Boksburg, Moto Mate Eastrand, HOT 102.7 FM, Phoenix Systems Integration and BMW Motorrad East Rand.

It was also a challenging time for Van der Vyver’s wife, Anne.

“I was worried about him and am relieved he’s now safe,” she said.

Anne booked the accommodation for her husband throughout his trip.

Now that Van der Vyver is back on home soil, he will use this time to reassess his plan to reach his goal and spread mental health awareness.

He and his wife will fly to Italy in about three weeks to perhaps put the South African flag up in a restaurant in Rome.

“May we all continue to spread the awareness and lend our ears to those who need to speak out,” added Van der Vyver.

Also Read: Great send-off from Boksburg for brothers biking to Italy

Also Read: Brothers to bike from Boksburg to Italy for mental health awareness