Joining this group, I find myself compelled to share the story of my beloved husband, Zoran V Raba, who tragically passed away on 11/9/21. Zoran was more than just a partner; he was my confidant, my best friend, and the love of my life. Today, I find solace in sharing his memory with a community that may understand the pain of loss and the struggles he faced.
Zoran battled with the demons of addiction, a relentless struggle that he faced with courage and determination. His journey was marked by the challenges of alcohol and drug dependency, a battle that often obscured the brilliant, multifaceted person he truly was. Behind the veil of addiction was a man who possessed intelligence, love, humor, and a remarkable talent for everything he pursued.
On that fateful morning, Zoran made a decision that would change the course of our lives forever. Consuming drugs, specifically fentanyl, he laid down beside me, seemingly unaware of the irreversible consequences that would follow.
The sound of his snoring, a familiar lull in our shared existence, was the last echo of a life that had been extinguished in the quiet hours of the night. I was unaware of the gravity of the situation as I drifted back to sleep, believing he was merely resting. The harsh reality unveiled itself when I awoke to find him lifeless by my side. In an instant, my world crumbled, and the person who had been my baby, my everything, was gone.
The pain of that moment is indescribable, a wound that time may dull but can never truly heal. Zoran V Raba, forever 30, leaves behind a legacy of resilience and a multifaceted personality that touched the lives of those fortunate enough to know him. His brilliance, warmth, and humor were beacons of light that, despite the darkness of addiction, continued to shine through. It is essential to remember Zoran not solely for the struggles he faced but for the person he was beneath the weight of addiction.
He was smart, loving, funny, and excelled in every endeavor he undertook. In the wake of his passing, it becomes a collective responsibility to advocate for awareness surrounding addiction, its devastating consequences, and the need for empathy and support.
As we navigate the pain of loss, let us cherish the memories of the vibrant soul that was Zoran V Raba. May his memory inspire compassion, understanding, and a collective commitment to breaking the chains of addiction that claimed his life too soon. Rest in peace, dear Zoran, your light will forever live on in our hearts.
