Rameses' caretaker Rob Hogan slowly improves from tractor fall

The man who cares for Rameses, the animal version of UNC’s mascot, is in critical condition after a Sept. 15 fall from his tractor.

Rob Hogan, 53, was on his tractor at Hogan’s Magnolia View Farm on Old N.C. 86 when he fell and injured his knee, leading to a condition called rhabdomyolysis, in which injured muscle tissue dies and releases harmful toxins to the kidneys. Rameses was not present during pre-game ceremonies at the Sept. 18 football game versus Georgia Tech due to the incident.

Family members said Hogan has undergone multiple surgeries. He is in critical condition, said a spokesman from UNC Hospitals.

“It’s been exceptionally stressful and frightening,” said Hogan’s wife, Ann Leonard.

Regina Leonard, the sister-in-law of Hogan’s wife, said she flew to Chapel Hill from West Hartford, Conn. on Tuesday after receiving a call about the situation.

She said doctors have told the family that Hogan is slowly progressing.

“Small baby steps,” Regina Leonard said.

Ann Leonard said there has been an outpouring of support during Hogan’s stay in the hospital.

“It’s an important lesson for all of us in the strength of community,” she said.

A website set up for those wishing to visit Hogan has had more than 19,000 hits. A post cautioned well-wishers against visiting him in the intensive care unit in order to save space for other families’ visitors.

Four generations of Hogans have cared for Rameses. At least one of the rams has been on the Hogan family’s farm since the animal was named the school’s mascot in 1924.

Ann Leonard said her husband’s accident has reminded the family of the need for blood and platelet donations.

Regina Leonard said donations would honor both the University’s mascot and the man who has cared for it.

“I think it would be a tribute to Rameses.”

Contact the University Editor at udesk@unc.edu.