Dmitry Shepelev opened up in a candid chat with Vlad Aganov, reflecting on how the process of living with the loss of Zhanna Friske stretched on far longer than anyone expected. He explained that the pain endured for years, shaping the course of his personal life and stretching the years during which Friske could focus on her art and her responsibilities as a mother. In that time, she poured her energy into caring for their son, Plato, while navigating the immense sadness that followed her illness and absence from public life.
Shepelev described his path through emotional turbulence and his search for stability. He sought support from mental health professionals and brought his son into the process as part of their healing journey. He recalled sitting in the office with the psychologist, moving with difficulty, leaning on the counselor’s couch as waves of emotion rose and subsided. The conversations helped him begin to articulate what he carried inside and allowed him to start rebuilding a sense of daily life after such a heavy loss.
In discussing his attitude toward seeking help, Shepelev stressed that consulting a psychologist was never something to be ashamed of. He encouraged others not to devalue the role of mental health support, noting that at that time he was not in a state to continue regular therapy, yet the initial steps provided crucial relief and direction. The experience underscored a broader message about resilience and the importance of addressing emotional distress rather than bottling it up.
He also acknowledged that the grief nudged him toward unhealthy coping methods for a period. He confessed that alcohol became part of his life as he wrestled with the loss, a stark reminder of how pain can push people toward temporary numbness. He emphasized, though, that such choices were not viable paths forward and that he ultimately sought healthier ways to move through sorrow and reclaim balance.
Zhanna Friske, a beloved performer, faced a battle with brain cancer that began in 2013. She wrestled with the disease for several years, showing remarkable strength while continuing to inspire fans through both her artistry and her courage. Her passing on a mid-June day marked a significant moment for many who followed her career, leaving a void in the world of music and entertainment that she had helped shape with her distinctive voice and radiant stage presence.
Before her illness, Friske had already made a lasting impact with songs that resonated across generations. Her partnership with Shepelev and the public’s affection for her work contributed to a continuing conversation about how artists navigate personal challenges while keeping their professional commitments. The memory of Friske extends beyond her public persona, touching the private lives she influenced and the family she helped raise with care and devotion.
Her legacy has persisted in the stories told by colleagues and fans who remember her energy, artistry, and the warmth she shared with those around her. In the wake of her illness and loss, conversations about well-being and the importance of support networks have grown stronger, highlighting how communities rally when a cherished voice is silenced. The evolution of Shepelev’s own journey reflects a broader truth: grief reshapes lives, but it can also spark growth and renewed purpose when paired with compassion and professional guidance.
Ultimately, the tale of Zhanna Friske remains a testament to resilience in the face of illness and the enduring bond she shared with her family. The emotional road traveled by those who loved her—particularly the father who has carried a portion of her memory forward for years—serves as a reminder that healing is often gradual, and that seeking help is a courageous part of that process. In acknowledging their experiences, both Friske and Shepelev contributed to a narrative about strength, vulnerability, and the ongoing responsibility to care for one another as life unfolds.