Footy legend Alex Jesaulenko has been ‘overwhelmed’ with support in his fight against Parkinson’s

Carlton legend Alex ‘Jezza' Jesaulenko has been overwhelmed by support as he fights degenerative Parkinson’s disease, with an event today expected to attract thousands of people.

Kate Jesaulenko with Jezza’s former Carlton teammates Jimmy Buckley (L) and Wayne Harmes, preparing to walk for Parkinson’s awareness. Picture: David Crosling

Kate Jesaulenko says her dad, footy legend Alex Jesaulenko, has been overwhelmed by support as he takes on the fight against Parkinson’s disease.

Nearly 2,000 people will converge on Federation Square on Sunday for the new event, A Walk in the Park, to raise awareness and funds for Fight Parkinson’s.

“Dad and the family have been completely overwhelmed with the support from not only the Carlton Football Club but football supporters and people suffering from Parkinson’s,’’ Kate said.

“He’s amazing, he’s going to the gym twice a week and he’s looking the best he’s looked. We are proud to create awareness and support and raise money for research into finding a cure.”

Jesaulenko’s former Carlton teammates including Jimmy Buckley and Wayne Harmes, along with Vin Catoggio, Rod Austin, Mike Fitzpatrick and Peter McConville will be among the crowd.

Jesaulenko, 76, nicknamed “Jezza”, took his place in footy folklore after commentator Mike Williamson’s famous “Jesaulenko, you beauty” call when he soared above Graeme Jenkin in the 1970 grand final between Carlton and Collingwood.

Jesaulenko played 256 games for Carlton – including premierships in 1968, 1970, 1972 and 1979 – and became the 22nd Legend of the AFL Hall of Fame in 2008.

He was diagnosed in January.

“The ’79 (premiership) team are rallying around Dad because he doesn’t want to be front and centre but they all adore him,’’ Kate said.

“Fight Parkinson’s is a wonderful organisation and we’d love for everyone to come and walk with us or make a donation.”