The man known by some Sunbury residents as King Jack remains as enthusiastic and enterprising as ever as he continues to recover from a major stroke.
While long-time Hume councillor Jack Ogilvie remains paralysed on his left side following the July 6 stroke, wife Lesley says he’s progressing relatively well.
Doctors and carers at a rehabilitation clinic in Royal Park are pleased with his start on the long road to recovery.
Mrs Ogilvie said the former mayor, 68, remained ‘‘the same old Jack’’ despite mobility problems.
‘‘His mind, his memory, his speech are fantastic,’’ she said.
Mrs Ogilvie said that while there had been moments of frustration, Cr Ogilvie had decided to ‘‘get on with it’’ and deal with the hand he’d been dealt.
‘‘He’s learned to make his own lunch with one hand, he’s doing woodwork with one arm and he’s even made spaghetti sauce for all the staff,’’ she said.
Mrs Ogilvie said the family was hopeful he would return in time to make an appearance at a gala charity ball being held on October 17.
Mrs Ogilvie, who has had to retire from her position as practice manager at Complete Skin Specialists, said the family faced expenses with equipment and home modifications needed.
But she said the fundraising ball at Pitruzzello Estate would take a lot of pressure off them.
‘‘We’re just so appreciative to know that so many people care,’’ she said.
Mrs Ogilvie said Cr Ogilvie and their two daughters had been ‘‘blown away’’ by community support.
Click here for more details about the charity ball.
