Civil rights icon Reverend Jesse Jackson has been hospitalized unexpectedly, as confirmed by his family members. The 84-year-old was admitted to Northwestern Memorial Hospital on the evening of Wednesday. The Rainbow PUSH Coalition, based in Chicago and founded by Jackson, released a statement updating the public on his health status.
According to the organization, Jackson has been battling a neurodegenerative condition for over ten years. Initially diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, his condition was later confirmed as PSP in April last year. The family has expressed gratitude for the thoughts and prayers during this challenging time.
With a legacy of over six decades advocating for racial equality and economic justice, Jackson shared his Parkinson’s diagnosis in 2018. Drawing inspiration from his late friend Muhammad Ali, who succumbed to the same disease in 2016, Jackson emphasized the impact of the progressive neurological condition on daily activities like dressing and movement.
The Baptist minister, known for his collaboration with Martin Luther King Jr., and subsequent political career, highlighted the importance of remaining active despite the challenges posed by the condition. Jackson spoke about his experience with boxing as a recommended activity to maintain physical strength and independence.
Having been honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom by former President Bill Clinton in 2000, Reverend Jackson has been recognized with over 40 honorary doctoral degrees for his unwavering dedication to civil rights causes.