In Loving Memory of Aneta Hadzi-Tanovic

It is with broken hearts and profound respect that we share the passing of Aneta Hadzi-Tanovic, a devoted mother, beloved wife, attorney, and fearless advocate who dedicated her life to protecting her children and fighting for families harmed by a broken family court system.

Aneta was a warrior in every sense. She did not give up on her children, she gave everything she had to protect them. When the court system failed her again and again, she made the agonizing choice to stop participating in its harm, not out of defeat, but out of an act of love. She chose a different fight, one that preserved her children’s dignity and her own.

A trained attorney who immigrated from Serbia in pursuit of a better life, Aneta used her voice, her strength, and her story to shine a light on deep injustices that too many parents are forced to endure in silence. She experienced years of institutional cruelty, including the egregious misconduct of Guardian ad Litem David Pasulka, whose abuse of power devastated families across Illinois.

Even as she faced this abuse, Aneta continued to advocate for change. She inspired hundreds of other parents with her courage, helping them find their own voices and reminding them they were not alone.

Her years-long fight for justice came at a profound cost. In March 2025, at the age of 52, Aneta gave birth to her daughter, Iskra—a true miracle. Born following intense personal and legal turmoil, Iskra brought unimaginable joy and light into Aneta’s life. She is beautiful, healthy, and perfect, a radiant reminder of love, hope, and resilience even in the darkest of times.

But shortly after Iskra’s birth, Aneta received the devastating diagnosis of Stage IV pancreatic cancer. Despite the overwhelming challenges, she met this new battle with the same fierce determination and grace that defined her life. She fought for every moment with her newborn daughter, refusing to let go of the love and purpose that had always guided her.

Throughout her battle, Aneta’s husband Aleks stood by her side with unwavering love and devotion. He gave up everything to care for Aneta and Iskra, supporting them through the most difficult chapter of their lives with extraordinary compassion and strength.

We are now asking for your support to help Aleks & Iskra and honor Aneta’s legacy. All funds will go toward:

Aneta gave so much to others. Let us now come together to give back to the family who gave everything to her.

Every donation, no matter the amount, makes a difference. And if you are unable to give financially, please help by sharing this campaign and keeping Aneta’s memory alive.

Rest in power, Aneta. Your courage lives on in every life you touched.

With deepest gratitude, 

Aleks & Iskra