[Video] Anja Pustak and Damjan Planer: We complement each other (Hot topic for 16 August 2026)

Jani Pavec, a well-known Slovenian musician, has spoken openly about his health struggles following a rare form of meningitis he contracted two years ago. In a recent interview with the podcast Spotkast, Pavec discussed how the illness has affected him both physically and emotionally, despite his belief that he will eventually walk again, not just walk, but run. He admitted, however, that life with crutches has become somewhat normalized, even though he knows it shouldn’t be. The interview highlights his emotional journey through recovery, including a deeply personal moment when his daughter reminded him of how he once walked before the illness took its toll. Pavec described how he initially accepted the consequences of the disease with his characteristic optimism. However, it was only later, when he looked into the mirror while sitting in a wheelchair, that he realized the gravity of his condition. Since then, he has made considerable progress, using crutches to walk, but he acknowledges that the road to full recovery is still long. Despite this, Pavec emphasized that he has not lost motivation or determination. He credited his family for helping him endure the challenges, stating that without them, he wouldn't be where he is today. The conversation with Spotkast host Evo Cimbola touched on the emotional impact of living with physical limitations. One particularly poignant moment came when Pavec’s daughter remarked, “Daddy, I don’t remember how you used to walk.” This statement struck a chord with Pavec, highlighting the subtle yet profound changes that have occurred in his daily life since the illness. His daughters, Sara, who is 16, and Kaja, who is six, have been central to his support system throughout his recovery. In addition to Pavec's story, another episode of Vroča tema featured Anja Pustak and Damjan Planer, a couple discussing their experiences with disability and life choices. Pustak, who was born prematurely and suffered oxygen damage leading to blindness, spoke candidly about her early life. She attended regular preschool before being moved to a special program, which she did not approve of, feeling it limited her potential. Her parents divorced when she was young, and her father struggled to accept her condition. Pustak expressed that she missed her father during her teenage years and vowed to find a different kind of father for her children, a promise she fulfilled. Despite these challenges, Pustak has found strength in her situation, viewing it as an opportunity for growth rather than a misfortune. She currently works with music, having composed and performed songs, and she expresses gratitude for her gift of singing. She is also exploring entrepreneurial opportunities based on her intuition. Planer, diagnosed with arthrogryposis, a condition affecting muscle development, shared his experience of growing up with mobility issues. As a child, he underwent surgery to enable movement in his ankle, allowing him to walk today, although his knees remain immobile. He recalled the difficulties of attending school at the Center for Education of Disabled Youth in Kamnik, which he felt was unnecessary because he could have followed a regular curriculum. He also mentioned missing home life due to living in an institution during childhood. Planer went on to attend secondary school and later studied law. He reflected on his romantic life, noting a complex relationship history, including a 17-year marriage that ended in divorce. Despite this, he maintains a positive relationship with his ex-wife and gets along well with Pustak’s former partner. Both Pustak and Planer criticized the profit-driven nature of companies that fail to provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities. They discussed the challenges faced by disabled individuals in finding employment and the lack of investment in their development. Their conversation also touched on financial support they receive from the state and Pustak’s aspirations to build a business based on her intuitive abilities. Their meeting was described as a meaningful exchange that challenges stereotypes. They openly discussed their finances, government assistance, and the realities of living with disabilities. The episode invites viewers to reconsider assumptions about people with disabilities and offers insight into their lives beyond societal expectations. Pustak recounted the moment she met Planer at a celebration she hosted, where he performed. She fell in love instantly, feeling a deep connection due to their similar life experiences. Their relationship evolved over time, leading to the birth of their daughter Amelija. Both parents shared their fears surrounding childbirth, especially their decision to have the delivery at home under the supervision of a midwife and grandmother. The discussion covered various aspects of their lives, including their personal relationships, career paths, and views on society. It offered a comprehensive look into their experiences, emphasizing resilience, adaptability, and the importance of mutual support in overcoming challenges. Their openness provides valuable perspectives on disability, love, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds.