Ace golfer Douglas Stewart knocked down but got up swinging

GOLF taught Douglas Stewart to keep an eye on his target whenever life chucked him a curveball.

Douglas Stewart - Pride of Australia

GOLF taught Douglas Stewart to keep an eye on his target whenever life chucked him a curveball.

So when he suffered a life-threatening stoke in 2008 that paralysed his left side, the 75-year-old Box Hill man didn't lose face.

"Once I got over the shock, I just said 'I'm going to get back to normal'," Mr Stewart said.

Within nine months, the gung-ho golfer was back on the course and teaching himself to swing one-handed.

But Mr Stewart can still barely walk 40m and admits his situation has been far from smooth sailing.

For this reason, he decided to support fellow stroke sufferers on their road to recovery.

He has since been donating his time to mentor patients with anything from goal-setting advice to tips for putting socks on.

"You're left with a huge change of conditions in your life and often the little things are most frustrating and can lead to depression," he said.

"It's just a matter of passing on a bit of confidence.

"It takes a bit of time but eventually they perk up when they understand they might be limited but they can still do things they love."

Mr Stewart felt humbled to have been nominated for a Pride of Australia award.

"I never felt I deserved anything like it," he said.

His son, Iain Stewart, who made the nomination, said it was touching to see his father support others through tough times.

Pride of Australia recognises unsung heroes. Nominations are open until 5pm, Tuesday, July 16. Visit: www.prideofaustralia.com.au