Benefit concert in Shtip to raise funds for drummer Vasko Popadinov
Artists from the Macedonian scene will perform on 10 November 2026 at Aco Shopov Cultural Center to raise money for urgent cardiac examinations.
A benefit concert will be held in Shtip on 10 November 2026 at 20:00 to raise funds for drummer Vasko Popadinov, who for seven years has been battling serious health problems that have left him unable to work.
Popadinov’s long health struggles began with chronic liver complications; last year doctors found his main left coronary artery nearly completely blocked and implanted a stent. Despite that procedure, his condition has not improved and he needs further, urgent tests.
Artists mobilize for a fellow musician
“I am most afraid that my heart will stop suddenly, and I am home alone… After less than 100 metres of walking I have to stop and sit down. Today I can't even bathe myself, nor climb stairs,” Popadinov says, describing the daily limits the illness has imposed. He lives alone and survives on minimal social assistance.
The call for help was publicly shared by folk singer Vlatko Miladinovski together with his brother Zlatko Miladinovski. Performers who answered the invitation and will appear at the humanitarian concert at the Aco Shopov Cultural Center in Shtip include Vlatko Miladinovski (with the Grand Orchestra of Zlatko Miladinovski), Suzana Gavazova, Stojne Nikolova, Damjan Stojanoski and Darko Stojanoski, Vasilija Petrova, the group Allegro, Tanja Jovanoska, Goran Todoroski and Aleksandar Angelov – Gajda. The event moderator will be Zorjan Gjorgjiev.
Doctors at a private clinic have recommended urgent additional examinations to determine why Popadinov’s problems persist and whether current therapy is effective. Required tests include a new coronary angiography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and specialized laboratory tests. Because of high costs and his fragile condition, he cannot cover these expenses alone.
Admission to the concert is by donation and all funds raised will go toward Popadinov’s medical tests and treatment. Those unable to attend may contribute directly to official bank accounts:
- Denar account: 210501701861072
- Foreign-currency account (IBAN): MK07270700123451073
- SWIFT/BIC: EXPCMK22
Information and contacts: Valentin (078 246 204) / Natalija (070 296 276).
The local music community is calling on citizens to show solidarity and help their colleague in a critical health fight.
Photo: press material from the event
