Problem with Excel file on 97

An Excel file has become damaged through a virus or power surge (client had both) problem is that the file opens with the "Open read only (reccomened) unless you wish to save changes" when you accept either Yes or No the file flashes open then is gone the title bar still states the name of the file indicating it is open but none of the toolbars are functional and the sheet/s are not there. No it has not been hidden or protected according to the client. Have tried opening it in other SS such as Lotus, Quatro both get the "performed illegal.... and wil now close" and does.