Introducing Our November Member Spotlight: Meet marius!
This month, we're excited to spotlight Marius, a familiar face with an unforgettable story, sense of humor, and a lot of heart. Since 2008, Canada has been his home, offering community and camaraderie—especially with his legendary squash crew, the “Gunslingers.” Blending a career in medicine with a passion for the ocean and a competitive spirit on the squash court, Marius has been a warm and energetic addition to Lemonade Collective.
We had the opportunity to interview Marius and are excited to share his story with you below!
Can you share a brief overview of your background and journey that has led you to where you are today?
Growing up in a charming little seaside village near Cape Town, South Africa, I was molded by the ocean, conservative values, and a tight-knit community. Life was straightforward and packed with the joys of surfing, spear fishing, rugby, and squash, each activity fostering friendships deeper than my understanding of astrophysics. With a handful of buddies, we spent countless hours soaking up nature's beauty, riding waves and competing fiercely, often with no idea what the scoreboard even meant. My upbringing gave me a profound appreciation for the ocean’s spoils and the relationships that keep us mildly sane.
Beyond sports, I took a shine to woodworking at a young age. Crafting my own surfboards became my version of artistic expression, even if my "art" (read: hours spent sanding while pretending to be an artist) often looked like a rogue piece of driftwood. Each board was a labor of love—or at least a labor of “let's hope this floats.” Beneath these hobbies lay a noble aspiration: the dream of becoming a doctor. My Christian upbringing, which emphasized compassion and service, nudged me toward this path. After all, who wouldn’t want to swap surfboards for stethoscopes?
Early in my career, I was lucky enough to patent several medical instruments—because if you can’t surf, you might as well invent things that make you look smart. This led me to travel the world, shaking hands with the various dignitaries and actual businessmen ; experiences that felt like a bizarre episode of a game show. But wait, there’s more! My journey wasn't all smooth sailing. A decade in South Africa exposed me to the gritty realities of a gun-violent rural practice, where I had a few too many close calls, including one memorable experience of being held at gunpoint. These delightful encounters tested my resolve and somehow reinforced my commitment to compassion and empathy—who knew danger could be so enlightening?
In 2008, I made the dramatic leap to Canada with my wife and two daughters, where I spent my first four years as a family doctor and emergency room "hero" in Saskatchewan—think of it as the snowy sequel to my South African saga, complete with frostbite and questionable fashion choices.
In 2012, I settled in Collingwood, eager to plant roots in a community that embraced us and rediscovered my love for squash at the local club. It was here that I met the illustrious Simon Pickess and Scott Carter. Together, we became known as the “Gunslingers”—clearly, we were destined for greatness. We celebrate rallies consisting mainly of powerful low shots aimed millimeters above the tin (- or that's the theory). Hollywood inspired drop shots are frowned upon, as it should be. This camaraderie added a “joyful dimension” to my life in Collingwood, reminding me of the importance of community, or at least the importance of having someone to share a laugh with/ being laughed at.
What drives and motivates you in your work or personal pursuits, and how do you stay inspired and focused?
What drives me (aside from copious amounts of caffeine and the odd glass of red wine ) is an unwavering desire to make a positive impact. Whether I’m treating patients or competing on the squash court, my motivation stems from the connections I forge with others. My patients inspire me with their resilience, reminding me that I’m lucky to play a role in their healthcare journeys, however chaotic they may be. My faith continues to guide me, reinforcing the importance of compassion, humility, and service.
Could you highlight some of the projects or endeavours you're currently involved in that you're particularly excited about?
Currently, I’m especially "thrilled" about my new role as the Chief of the Emergency Department in Meaford. This position lets me blend my love for medicine with my commitment to community service. I believe in the power of education and giving back, which I get to do as an offsite adjunct professor for McMaster University, training the next generation of medical students and resident doctors - someone must teach them that not every emergency involves being sliced open by Simon's racket or being body checked by Scott's chiseled deltoids.
My journey from a seaside village to a fulfilling career in medicine has been shaped by faith, friendships, and a commitment to serving others. Each experience has contributed to my identity, and I remain focused on making a positive impact in my community, all while keeping my sense of humor intact—because let’s face it, laughter is the best medicine, right after actual medicine.