Lira: 'I’m doing the best I can to remain sane'

South African singer Lira says her speech is still healing eight months after suffering a stroke.

The 'Feel God' hitmaker was hospitalised in April 2022 after suffering a stroke in Germany. She has been unable to return to the stage as the stroke impaired her speech. She was later diagnosed with aphasia - a language disorder caused by trauma to the brain.

While she can still sing, her voice has not been fully restored. 

The 43-year-old kept a low profile during the Festive Season but returned to Instagram this week to update her fans on her health. 

"Complements of the new year! I haven’t posted this year. My speech healing is very slow," she captioned a video of herself going on a holiday. 

The SAMA winner says she wishes great health for everyone in 2023. 

"I’m doing the best I can to remain sane. I’m still alive and well. I wish great health, prosperity and love!!."

ALSO READ: Lira stroke update: 'Please keep your prayers coming'

The biggest lesson Lira learned in 2022 was to "slow down, smell the roses and savour each moment", and it looks like she is taking that positive attitude into 2023. 

She announced in November that a singing master class she recorded before her stroke is now available. She teamed up with MyMastery for the project. 

"This amazing footage is a great memory of good times which I feel is well worth sharing now as I continue on my road to recovery. In my exclusive masterclass, I cover important themes like connecting with your purpose, songwriting, finding your voice, personal growth and growing as a performer," she wrote. 

Lira's family, friends, and fans are hoping to see her back on stage in 2023. 

Kelly Khumalo said: "We will continue so stand firm in prayer for you." 

News personality Leanne Manas wrote: "Sending so much love Lira!! You will get there!"

ALSO READ: Stevie Nicks praises Ndlovu Youth Choir's "brilliant and moving" performance

Main image credit: Instagram/@miss_lira