The horticultural world is mourning the death of David J. C. Austin, chairman of the internationally renowned rose breeding company David Austin Roses, who died at the age of 67 after being diagnosed with Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD). Austin's family announced his passing, prompting tributes from colleagues, gardening enthusiasts and organizations that recognized his role in continuing the legacy of one of Britain's most influential rose breeders.
His death has also drawn attention to Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, an exceptionally rare but fatal neurological disorder that rapidly damages the brain. Although the condition affects only a small number of people worldwide each year, it progresses quickly and currently has no cure, making awareness and accurate information especially important.
