Jack Hanna: A Life Dedicated to Animals and the Battle of Alzheimer’s Disease
Jack Hanna, a name synonymous with education and conservation, has left an indelible mark on the world. His credits for building the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, numerous talk show appearances to educate the public about animals, and award-winning animal performances have made him an icon in wildlife education and entertainment. But as he faces the twilight of his life, he faces an adversary he cannot outwit—Alzheimer’s disease.
For years, Jack Hanna was a joyous presence, a Tennessee native with an endless supply of witty quips and his signature leather hat. He used humor and charm to bridge the gap between humans and the animal kingdom, promoting an understanding of the natural world that was both educational and entertaining.
Throughout his career, he has devoted himself to animal conservation and advocated for the protection and preservation of countless species. He used his platform to show the public the beauty and importance of the natural world and became a beloved figure for audiences of all ages.
However, the lively and charismatic Jack Hanna that the world knew is fading away. In 2019, he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, a cruel condition that slowly erases memories and robs individuals of their cognitive abilities. As he ages, Alzheimer’s takes away his ability to remember his significant past and turns his attention to his battle with this relentless disease.
Hanna, a formerly happy-go-lucky Tennessee native with an endless supply of witty jokes and a signature leather backcountry hat, has begun to show increasing signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
After four years of fighting the disease, Hanna (76) remembers little of her previous existence. According to his wife, “the Hanna people they knew were no longer here.”
Hanna can no longer recognize his own family due to the progression of his Alzheimer’s disease.
Currently, he spends most of his time with Suzi Egli, his devoted wife, and Brassy, his adorable dog. He considers his daughter Kathleen traveling from England to help care for her father.
The situation of the adored nurse attracted attention. Hanna’s family was thanked by Tom Schmid, the current director of the Columbus Zoo, for alerting them to his condition.
When asked how difficult it was for her father, daughter Hanna said: “He lived in fear that the public would find out.”
Hanna acknowledged Schmid for his years of dedication to the zoo, saying it wouldn’t be the same without him.
In an effort to let Hanna and his family know how much he meant to countless American families, the Columbus Zoo installed a green mailbox where visitors could leave letters for Hanna.
Hanna’s family also publicly expressed their appreciation to everyone who offered encouraging messages and well wishes. They acknowledged that the help got them through this difficult time. In a public statement, they noted: “While they appreciate the letters, they also express their gratitude to the public for respecting their privacy.”
While Dad/Jack can still move, his memory is failing, the brightness in his eyes has faded and we miss him every day. We are incredibly appreciative of your kind feelings, words of encouragement, and the privacy you have given our family.
including other famous people with neurological conditions, including Michael J. Fox, Hanna is very dependent on her family.
His wife openly admitted that caring for him was difficult. Some days are very demanding. However, my dad raised me and now it’s my responsibility to raise him.
In the twilight of his life, Jack Hanna may be battling Alzheimer’s disease, but his spirit lives on in the hearts of those he inspired. He taught us about the beauty of the natural world and the importance of preserving it for future generations. It’s a lesson that will continue to resonate in the work of conservationists and animal lovers around the world, a testament to the enduring legacy of Jungle Jack Hanna.