SAFE met with Nenad Nikolić, a neurology nurse from Serbia. Caring for his mum after her stroke led him to involvement in Moždani Udar, the Serbian Stroke Association and later to a position on the SAFE board. Here is why he believes attending the 2025 European Life After Stroke Forum (ELASF) in Prague is invaluable for people with similar experiences to him.
Nenad has devoted over 22 years to neurology nursing, starting as a volunteer before progressing to permanent roles across various departments. His expertise spans multiple areas, including a four-year tenure as a head nurse. Today, he specialises in EEG (electroencephalography), a vital diagnostic tool for conditions such as epilepsy and vertigo, and assists with EMNG (electroneurography), another crucial neurological test.
His professional journey has been deeply influenced by personal experience. 15 years ago, Nenad’s mother suffered a stroke.
‘My mom had a stroke 15 years ago. Thankfully, she recovered very well, she is independent, can walk and her speech is fine. I played a major role in her recovery simply because I happened to be home when it happened. I immediately called the ambulance. But as our local CT scan was out of action she had to be transferred much further for treatment. This experience deeply impacted me and motivated me to become more proactive, not just as a nurse but as a stroke caregiver. It also inspired me go beyond my regular work’
This turning point led Nenad to join his local stroke support organisation (SSO) and take on the role of secretary for Moždani Udar, the Serbian Stroke Association and in 2023 taking on the role as a SAFE board member. He has become a passionate advocate for stroke survivors, balancing multiple roles as a nurse, caregiver and advocate.
Through this work he attended the European Life after Stroke Forums in Barcelona.
‘I was very curious about how the Forum would be organised. It brings together such a diverse audience – health professionals, stroke survivors, carers, speech therapists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists and leading professors from Europe’s top universities. I was impressed by how accessible the content was for everyone, balancing scientific depth with practical relevance. It was inspiring.’
He is already looking forward to attending the next event in Prague in March 2025, having missed the Dublin event due to an operation.
‘I am looking forward to learning about new research, share experiences and connect with peers from across Europe. It is an opportunity to exchange knowledge and ideas, which I absolutely love. The Forum has reinforced my passion for stroke care and advocacy, blending my professional expertise with my personal experiences.’
REGISTER NOW. ELASF 2025 is an unmissable event for nurses, carers and anyone involved in stroke support organisations. With lived experience at its core, the Forum offers a unique opportunity to gain fresh insights, expand your professional network and contribute to the collective effort to enhance life after stroke across Europe.
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