Jill & John’s second son, Michael was born in 1961 after a very quick labour which resulted in brain damage. Nobody in Newcastle could tell Jill why her beautiful son was not developing like other boys his age. It was when Michael was over 2 years of age that a diagnosis of cerebral palsy was given at The Spastic Centre in Mosman (now Cerebral Palsy Alliance).
For years, Jill and some other mothers travelled to Sydney, which on occasion proved to be quite hazardous. After a few worrying trips, The Spastic Centre agreed to send a physio up to Newcastle instead.
Over the years, Jill Stuart organised larger and larger treatment/classrooms, until in 1983 the Centre at Croudace Bay was opened through the efforts of many amazing community groups, spearheaded by her Brother John Kilpatrick OAM, who later became the longest service Mayor of Lake Macquarie. Her other brother Owen who was the Director of Western Suburbs Leagues Club at New Lambton facilitated ongoing support from the Wests Group.
The Centre became known as The Stuart Centre acknowledging the support of Jill, John and Owen
On Wednesday 31st July, Jill turned 90! Three of the fundraising team, Carol O’Carroll, Emma Featherstone, and Judith O’Hagan visited Newcastle and were privileged to visit Jill and wish her all the best for her impending birthday, and acknowledge her incredible drive to offer treatment for families of people with CP in the Hunter region.
The early diagnosis clinic at Croudace Bay was opened in May 2023. Babies can now be diagnosed with ‘high risk of cerebral palsy’ as early as three months of age. Getting the right diagnosis early means babies can start appropriate inventions and supports to help them reach their best potential. This is a stark comparison to Michael’s early years where he was not diagnosed or treated until he was two years of age.
As part of the fundraising efforts of the then, Spastic Centre, Jill was involved for many years in The Miss Australia Quest which raised in excess of $87m to support people with cerebral palsy and their families. As a chaperone to some of the entrants, Jill travelled to NewZealand, Norfolk Island, Sitmar Cruise around the pacific islands Singapore London & Europe.
Not only is Jill a living legend, but she has also ensured that her legacy lives on by including a gift in her Will to Cerebral Palsy Alliance.
Jill’s philosophy to “JUST KEEP GOING” is palpable in everything she’s achieved!
Thank you Jill…
