Civil rights icon Reverend Jesse Jackson has been hospitalized suddenly, as confirmed by his family. The 84-year-old was admitted to Northwestern Memorial Hospital on Wednesday evening. The Rainbow PUSH Coalition, based in Chicago and founded by Jackson, issued a statement updating the public on his health status.
Jackson has been battling a neurodegenerative condition for over a decade. Initially diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, last April, he was confirmed to have PSP. The family has expressed gratitude for the thoughts and prayers during this time.
A prominent figure in the fight for racial equality and economic justice for over 60 years, Jackson revealed his struggle with Parkinson’s in 2018, drawing inspiration from his late friend, boxer Muhammad Ali, who succumbed to the disease in 2016.
The Baptist minister, who worked alongside Martin Luther King Jr., also had a noteworthy political career. Discussing the challenges posed by his progressive neurological condition, Jackson mentioned the impact on movement and daily tasks like dressing. He highlighted the importance of staying active, even recommending boxing as a beneficial activity.
Former US President Bill Clinton honored Jackson with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2000, the highest civilian award in the nation. Recognized for his unwavering dedication to civil rights, Jackson has been bestowed with over 40 honorary doctoral degrees.
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