To feel seen, held and supported. When loss and grief pull you out of orbit, that is what gets you through.
KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (26 February 2026) – In Howick, an 8-year-old boy named Nicolai is trying to make sense of a world that has just lost its centre. Nicolai’s mom, Rita, passed away yesterday after a brief illness. And his dad, Brett – the much-loved car guard so many Howick residents know by face if not by name – is doing the same.
Grieving his wife, holding together his young son, and planning a funeral for his beloved.
Brett has watched over cars at the town’s Fallsview Shopping Centre for years. The little money he earns doing so won’t cover the financial burden that comes with a sudden loss. Knowing the immense strain this places on a now-widowed father, the community has come together to do something meaningful for them.
“The loss of a cherished wife and devoted mother has left both Brett and his young son, Nicolai, who is just 8 years old, utterly shattered. With the emotional toll weighing heavily upon them, the financial burden of a funeral only adds to their grief. As many of you know, Brett has always been a familiar and friendly face in our community, and now it’s our turn to show our love and support for him and Nicolai during this challenging time. We are launching a fundraising campaign to help them cover funeral expenses and provide some relief as they navigate this heartbreaking chapter of their lives.” reads an online crowdfunding campaign, created to support Brett and Nicolai through these first steps of loss.
Marius Wiese created an online crowdfunding campaign, appealing to his fellow Howick community members, asking them to come together and donate toward Rita’s funeral.
The goal was set at R20,000, and the campaign was shared far and wide. In less than 24 hours, more than 80% had already been covered by dozens of people choosing to give what they could.
Many South Africans are facing hardship right now, but we’re still a nation of givers that meet need with compassion, consistently. In this case, because a man in the community is hurting, and that is reason enough.
Grief doesn’t resolve when the funeral is paid for. But knowing that your community sees you — that strangers care whether you’re okay…that matters more than words can really say.
If you’d like to be part of this and help Brett and Nicolai, follow this link.
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