"I HAVE A BACKGROUND, I PANIC" Žika Jakšić honestly about health problems: This is how he feels now after a stroke

In early 2017, renowned Serbian writer Zorana Šulc experienced a sudden and unexpected stroke during a birthday celebration. The incident occurred without prior symptoms, catching her completely off guard. According to her account shared in an interview with Blic television's program *Na terapiji sa Slavicom Đukić Dejanović*, she was seated among friends when a journalist noticed her face had distorted. At first, Šulc dismissed the observation as nonsense, but the situation quickly escalated. She was rushed to the Clinical Center, where medical professionals confirmed the severity of her condition.

The critical moment came when a doctor informed Šulc that the next hour would determine whether she would survive or not. This revelation marked a turning point in her life, highlighting the urgency of the medical intervention. Despite being placed on intensive care and experiencing paralysis on the left side of her body, along with difficulty speaking and blinking, Šulc showed remarkable resilience. Her close friend Suzana Mančić arrived at the hospital in the early hours of the morning, bringing essential items and providing emotional support. Šulc described feeling emotionally detached at the time, emphasizing her belief that everything was in God’s hands.

Following several months of rehabilitation, Šulc made a significant recovery. She regained mobility, abandoned her walking cane, and returned to a more active lifestyle within six months. However, the physical challenges were just one part of her journey. After overcoming the initial health crisis, Šulc entered a deep depressive phase. This period tested her mentally and emotionally, but she emerged with valuable insights about the importance of open communication and mental health awareness.

Šulc emphasized the need for women—especially mothers—to engage in honest conversations with their children about all aspects of life, including personal feelings and struggles. She urged parents not to shame their children for making mistakes, as this can create fear and prevent them from opening up later in life. Additionally, she encouraged women to maintain open dialogue with their partners, stressing the significance of expressing emotions rather than suppressing them. These reflections underscore her belief that vulnerability and honesty are crucial for both personal well-being and healthy relationships.

Meanwhile, another public figure, Žika Jakšić, also faced a serious health challenge after suffering a stroke. In an interview with Kurir, Jakšić discussed his experience with the aftermath of the stroke, revealing that he has largely recovered but still experiences minor speech difficulties. He described moments when certain words elude him, causing brief panic, though he has since adapted to these occurrences. Jakšić noted that he underwent eight months of physical therapy and speech therapy, which significantly aided his recovery. Although he no longer feels the need for ongoing treatment, he acknowledges the lingering effects of the stroke on his daily life.

Jakšić's story highlights the broader impact of strokes on individuals beyond the immediate physical consequences. His openness about his struggle reflects a growing trend among public figures to discuss health issues candidly, aiming to raise awareness and reduce stigma around such conditions. His participation in the talent show *Nikad nije kasno* further demonstrates how individuals can continue to contribute meaningfully to society even after facing major health setbacks.

Both Šulc and Jakšić have become advocates for mental and physical health, using their personal experiences to encourage others to seek help and prioritize self-care. Their journeys illustrate the complex interplay between health crises, recovery processes, and the psychological toll they can take. As they navigate life post-stroke, their stories serve as reminders of the importance of resilience, support systems, and proactive approaches to health management.

Their narratives also reflect the broader societal shift towards greater transparency regarding health issues. Public figures sharing their vulnerabilities can inspire others to speak openly about their own challenges, fostering a culture of understanding and empathy. This openness is particularly important in addressing mental health concerns, which often remain shrouded in silence despite their prevalence. By discussing their experiences, Šulc and Jakšić contribute to a collective effort to normalize conversations around health, encouraging individuals to seek timely interventions and support when needed.

As they continue to share their stories, both Šulc and Jakšić are expected to play roles in promoting awareness and education surrounding strokes and related health issues. Their advocacy efforts could influence policy discussions, healthcare practices, and community initiatives aimed at improving access to care and reducing the incidence of preventable complications. Their ongoing engagement with the public ensures that their voices remain influential in shaping perceptions and responses to health-related challenges.