Serbian Singer Zorica Brunclik Reveals Diverticulitis Diagnosis After Months in Hospital

Key facts

• Zorica Brunclik was diagnosed with diverticulosis of the colon, a condition involving inflamed pouches in the intestinal wall.
• She underwent two phases of treatment: first at Dragiša Mišović hospital, then at the Clinical Center of Serbia.
• Her CRP level reached 300, D-dimer 4,000, and iron level 1, indicating severe inflammation and anemia.
• She had surgery to remove the affected part of the colon.
• Brunclik thanked President Aleksandar Vučić for his personal concern and phone calls.
• Her husband Milovan was credited by both as crucial to her survival.
• Singers Lepa Lukić, Zorica Marković, and Ana Bekuta called her daily during her illness.

A Sudden Health Crisis

Zorica Brunclik, one of Serbia's most beloved folk singers, has revealed that she spent months in hospital battling a severe case of diverticulosis of the colon. The condition, which causes small pouches to form in the intestinal wall, became inflamed and filled with waste, posing a risk of rupture. Brunclik, 70, said she initially did not take the diagnosis seriously, but the situation quickly escalated.

Two Phases of Treatment and Surgery

Brunclik underwent two distinct phases of treatment. She was first hospitalized at Dragiša Mišović hospital, then transferred to the Clinical Center of Serbia for further care. The singer confirmed that the issue was resolved through surgery, stating, "It's all done." She described the operation as life-saving, noting that without it, the pouches could have burst.

Alarming Test Results and Silent Symptoms

The singer revealed that she felt no pain despite critically abnormal test results. On August 1, her longtime physician Nemanja Damjanov reviewed her blood work and expressed concern. Her CRP, a marker of inflammation, was 300 (normal is below 5); D-dimer, indicating blood clotting, was 4,000 (normal under 500); and iron was 1 (normal 50-150). "I felt nothing, nothing," she said.

Support from Family, Officials, and Colleagues

Brunclik's husband Milovan was described as her "salvation" — both she and her husband stated that without him, she would not be alive. She also thanked President Aleksandar Vučić, who called to check on her and wish her a speedy recovery, and Health Minister Lončar, who also inquired about her condition. Among her peers, singers Lepa Lukić, Zorica Marković, and Ana Bekuta called her every day, and she expressed gratitude to all colleagues and even contestants from the talent show "Pinkove zvezde" for their prayers.

Recovery and Return to Public Life

Brunclik has now returned to her role as a judge on the talent show "Pinkove zvezde," marking her first public appearance since the ordeal. She said she feels well enough to dance a kolo, a traditional Serbian circle dance. Her recovery has been aided by a physiotherapist she nicknamed "Hitler" for his strict regimen, and a nurse named Slađa who cares for her wound. She also humorously noted that doctors have forbidden intimate relations.

A Plea for Preventive Care

The singer issued a heartfelt appeal to the public, especially those over 50, to undergo regular preventive checkups. "It doesn't hurt, and don't let it be too late," she urged. She also described the surreal experience of anesthesia, recalling hallucinations where she shouted for her son to "kill the crap" that had captured her. Despite the ordeal, she maintains a positive outlook, saying, "God said I'm not for him yet."

The bottom line

• Diverticulosis can be asymptomatic until it becomes life-threatening; regular checkups are crucial.
• Brunclik's case highlights the importance of a strong support network, from family to high-ranking officials.
• Early detection by her physician likely saved her life, despite her lack of symptoms.
• The singer's recovery underscores the effectiveness of timely surgical intervention.
• Public figures using their platform to promote preventive health can have a significant impact.