Jack Hanna, the 74-year-old t.v. host, and director emeritus of the Columbus Zoo, has stepped down from his role in public life after being diagnosed with dementia. His family made the announcement on Wednesday (4/7) saying that doctors believe it is Alzheimer's Disease.
Jack appeared on numerous programs over the years promoting wildlife, saying he believed the animals he brought with him were ambassadors for those living in the wild.
Hanna's daughters said in a statement that his condition has deteriorated much quicker than the family had anticipated over the last couple of months. Because of that, he will no longer be participating in public life, as he used to.