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Pretoria Doctors Embark on Motorbike Journey to Madrid

Published

8 months ago

September 17, 2023

Pretoria Doctors Embark on Motorbike Journey to Madrid

In an extraordinary display of friendship and purpose, two remarkable doctors, industrial psychologist Dr Jean Cooper and medical doctor Dr. De Witt Oosthuizen, are embarking on a life-changing 16,000-kilometer Motorcycle Challenge. Their journey will take them through 20 countries, spanning from Pretoria, South Africa, to Madrid, Spain, and their mission is as awe-inspiring as their adventure: to bring clean water to rural South African villages as reported by SA People.

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These ‘Healers on Wheels’ have aptly named their expedition “Expedition H2O: Back to Basics,” which promises to be an unforgettable odyssey filled with adventure, compassion and an unwavering commitment to a greater purpose.

Born in the same year and united by a friendship forged at the University of Pretoria’s Sonop Residence, Dr. Cooper and Dr. Oosthuizen share a common dream of adventure and a profound dedication to helping others. For Dr. Cooper, this journey represents a shift from mentoring top executives to pursuing a purpose greater than oneself. His involvement in Direct Transact’s Ezenzeleni Water Project, a registered public benefit organisation, laid the foundation for this life-changing expedition. For Dr. Oosthuizen, who possesses medical qualifications in rural medicine, this adventure is an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.

Their goal is monumental: to raise R3.2 million through a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy. For every R700 raised, one person gains reliable daily access to water, and R2800 provides an entire family with this essential resource. Achieving their objective means transforming the lives of a whole community comprising 4,800 people.

Their epic journey begins this Saturday at 11:00 from Trax Moto KTM in Silver Lakes, Pretoria. Over the next three months, they will navigate a route along the West Coast of Africa, ultimately reaching Madrid, Spain. Their chosen route, guided by seasoned truck drivers, promises safer roads through Africa.

What makes this expedition even more heartwarming is their commitment to installing 100 rainwater tanks in rural Free State communities that lack easy access to fresh water. These tanks will serve as a lifeline, ensuring a sustainable source of clean water for these deserving villages.

Their crowdfunding campaign supporting Direct Transact’s Ezenzeleni Water Project has already garnered over R356,000.

Armed with two Husqvarna off-road motorcycles, this dynamic duo will confront diverse terrains and climates, from dusty trails to high humidity near the equator. Their journey through countries like the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Cameroon will test their resolve and resilience. Yet, they remain steadfast in their quest to find a new rhythm for their lives and inspire others to do the same. As Dr. Oosthuizen aptly says, “We’re tackling the journey to find a new rhythm for our lives. That also means knowing what to take and what to leave in many respects.”

This remarkable expedition isn’t just about covering kilometres; it’s about bridging the gap between privilege and need, inspiring others to embark on their own quests for a better world. Jean and De Witt’s adventure is a testament to the boundless capacity of the human spirit for compassion, resilience, and the pursuit of a greater purpose.