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Alzheimer’s disease is sometimes referred to as “the long goodbye,” because of the gradual time it takes from diagnosis to death, and a wildlife expert’s family Jack Hanna He is currently going through a painful process. In 2019, Hanna was first diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, and the family announced his diagnosis in 2021. Hanna, the former director of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, retired to Montana with his wife that year to continue his private battle with the disease.
A new update has arrived from the family about Hannah’s performance in 2023, and it’s not good. Hannah is now said to be living with “advanced” Alzheimer’s, at which point he is no longer able to recognize their loved ones. He is only able to truly get to know his wife, Susie; his daughter Catalyn. and his dog, Brassy.
It was also revealed that the 76-year-old no longer remembers Columbus, Ohio, where he spent decades improving the reputation of the city’s famous zoo. Word is that Hannah’s condition has progressed very quickly over the past few months, taking a turn much faster than anyone in the family expected. Hanna’s family also says they wanted to share this update on how the animal lover has fared in hopes that it will let other families with Alzheimer’s know that they are not alone.
“We hope this helps someone else,” Kathleen Hanna told the Columbus Dispatch. We want those with Alzheimer’s disease to know that they are not alone. I know that’s what my father wants, too.”
Jungle Jack Hanna was a frequent guest on Maury’s
Hanna is especially beloved in Ohio, but the wildlife expert also has fans all over from his many television appearances. He was frequently on TV shows bringing in some of his animal friends from the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. It was very familiar Morey fans, as he popped up a lot, as well as on morning shows such as Good morning America and nightly talk shows like The Late Late Show. This made many fans feel sad when they learned of Hanna’s diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.
A family statement released in 2021 noted, “Doctors diagnosed our father, Jack Hanna, with dementia, which is now believed to be Alzheimer’s disease.” “His condition has progressed faster in the past few months than any of us could have expected. Sadly, Dad is no longer able to participate in public life as he used to, as people all over the world watched, learned and laughed with him… even though Dad is no longer Able to travel and work in the same way, we know his infectious enthusiasm touched many hearts and his legacy will live on.”
The statement added, “While Dad’s health is rapidly deteriorating, we can assure you his sense of humor still shines through. And yes — he still wears khakis at home.”
Our thoughts are with Hanna’s family amidst these ongoing struggles. You can learn more information about Alzheimer’s disease by visiting the Alzheimer’s Association’s official website.
