Jack Hanna, a zoologist and wildlife conservator, has been diagnosed with dementia. said the family Wednesday. The former director of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium will retire from public life.
Hanna’s three daughters – Kathaleen, Suzanne and Julie – announced the diagnosis of their 74-year-old father in a letter posted on social media. Doctors believe that his condition, which has progressed much faster than expected, is Alzheimer’s.
“Even though my father is no longer able to travel and work in the same way, we know that his infectious enthusiasm has touched many hearts and will continue to be his legacy,” his daughters wrote.
Hanna, also known as “Jungle Jack,” became a well-known wildlife expert through her work as director of the Columbus Zoo – a position she held between 1978 and 1992 – and her frequent media appearances in talk. -late night shows. frequently presented to the animals he worked with the public.
“My father has engaged millions of households through his media appearances and weekly television shows – including Animal Adventures, Into the Wild and Wild Countdown,” the sisters wrote. “This has given it an unparalleled level of awareness of the importance of global conservation, given the ongoing pressures on the natural environment.”
Kindness: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
The letter also highlighted “the ongoing challenges that Julie Hanna has had throughout her life from her childhood leukemia, as she is currently recovering from major surgery.”
The family continued to ask for confidentiality and understanding due COVID-19 restrictions, with the sisters adding, “ironically given the father’s love of interacting with people.”
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, where Hanna had been director emeritus until her resignation in December last year, he also shared the letter, stating that he respects the family’s wishes for privacy.
“While Jack retired from his official role at the end of 2020, his legacy will always be present in our work as we continue to fulfill our organization’s mission to lead and inspire by connecting people and wildlife.” declared the organization for CBS News.