Pequot superintendent released from hospital

Pequot Lakes Superintendent Jim Oraskovich is going back to school.

Oraskovich, who was hospitalized Saturday after collapsing at his home, was released Tuesday afternoon from St. Joseph's Medical Center in Brainerd. He stopped by the office at Pequot Lakes School Wednesday, and he plans to work a full day Thursday.

Early Saturday morning, Oraskovich sat down on the couch when his vision became blurry and he grew dizzy. He said he remembers he fainted and his wife called 911.

"I don't know what happened," he said. "I feel fine. I'm healthy. I work out every day and I am in good physical shape."

Oraskovich said Wednesday after a visit from the neurologist at the hospital that the cause of his collapse still is unknown. After taking several tests, Oraskovich said he learned he did not have a stroke or seizure like he previously thought.

Oraskovich, who was in a cheery, good mood even after his medical scare, now wears a heart monitor to see if there is anything wrong with his heart or his blood circulation. He will wear the monitor for 48 hours.

"The biggest thing I found out (through all the tests) is that I had pneumonia," he said. "I was wondering why I had four tough colds this winter."

Oraskovich plans to retire June 30 after nearly 38 years in education.

JENNIFER STOCKINGER can be reached at jennifer.stockinger@brainerddispatch.com or 855-5851.