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Topics: News
Emma Guinness
A mum has seemingly died from a 'broken heart' just days after discovering the body of her 34-year-old son.
Goran Ilich, whose cause of death has not been confirmed, passed away on 12 November, and his remains were found by his mum Elizabeth, who tragically also passed away just three days later.
Goran had lived in Coober Pedy, a remote town in South Australia, which has been left shaken by the sudden deaths from its population of just 2,000 people.
The Coober Pedy Regional Times described Goran as 'popular among all age groups' and added that he 'had a natural charm and was well-mannered and polite'.
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The local news outlet revealed the tragic death of his mother, too.
"In the early hours of Monday morning, a grief-stricken Elizabeth Ilich awoke with chest pains and called friends for assistance," it was reported.
"An ambulance was called but Ms Ilich passed away in hospital some hours later.
"Friends have related that Ms Ilich had a heart condition and believe that the grief from her son's death caused a heart attack."
The event has now been described as a 'double tragedy'.
The British Heart Foundation reports that when a person seemingly dies of a broken heart, they may have a condition known as Takotsubo cardiomyopathy - aka broken heart syndrome.
It reportedly manifests with symptoms that resemble a heart attack, but it is actually a completely different phenomenon.
While most heart attacks are caused by a blood clot in the coronary artery, those with Takotsubo have a persistently swollen heart muscle, which can affect its functioning.
This condition is appears to be brought on my trauma and studies have found that it is more common in women.
Following Goran's untimely death, a GoFundMe was set up to help cover his burial costs and described him as a 'beautiful soul' who has been taken 'too soon'.
"Everyone that interacted with Goran knew he was different, he could talk to anyone and charm them with his charisma and personality," the page read.
"Goran has left an impact on all of us in so many different ways and so many other cities."
The page was set up with an initial fundraising goal of $20,000 ASD, but more than double this amount has now been raised.
"Our most sincere condolences," wrote one well-wisher on the page. May God give you all strength."
"Condolences to the family. Goran will be forever missed and the world will always be less bright without him," added a second.
Further information about Takotsubo is available from the British Heart Foundation.