
The Rev. Jesse Jackson was hospitalized on Wednesday and is under observation for a neurodegenerative condition, his organization, Rainbow PUSH Coalition, said in a statement.
Jackson, 84, has been managing the condition, called progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), for over a decade, according to the organization he founded.
“He was originally diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease; however, last April, his PSP condition was confirmed,” the organization said. “The family appreciates all prayers at this time.”
The disorder damages certain areas of the brain and affects a person’s walking, swallowing, balance and eye movements, according to the Mayo Clinic. The condition worsens over time and can lead to dangerous complications, including trouble swallowing and pneumonia.
The disease typically affects people over the age of 60, and symptoms can mimic those of Parkinson’s.
There is no cure for the disease, but treatment options to help with symptoms include physical and occupational therapy, Botox, antidepressants, eyeglasses with prism or bifocal lenses, and Parkinson’s disease medications.
In a 2017 statement following news of his Parkinson’s diagnosis, Jackson said that his family began noticing symptoms three years prior and that his father also had the disease.
Jackson became a civil rights icon in the 1960s, participating in marches alongside Martin Luther King Jr. and playing a pivotal role in movements for equality and justice. He ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1984 and 1988.
He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, by President Bill Clinton in August 2000.
Jackson founded the National Rainbow Coalition in 1984. It merged with Operation PUSH in September 1996 to form the Rainbow PUSH Coalition.
This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
latest_posts
- 1
Taylor Frankie Paul's domestic violence case is fueling discussions about DARVO. Experts say terms like this shouldn't be used lightly. - 2
10 Hints for an Effective New employee screening - 3
Artemis II live updates: NASA's moon mission breaks Apollo record for farthest distance humans have traveled from Earth - 4
Tech for Efficiency: Applications and Apparatuses to Accomplish More - 5
Former 'Bachelorette' welcomes 1st baby via emergency c-section
The most effective method to Guarantee Simple Availability in Seniors' SUVs
The face is familiar, the name might not be. The king of "Hey, it's that guy!' roles is ready to show you his next act.
Instructions to Expand Your Smash 1500's Presentation: Tips and Deceives
Selena Quintanilla documentary 'Selena y Los Dinos: A Family's Legacy' is coming to Netflix
Investigating Design and Individual Style: Track down Your Remarkable Look
Watch interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS speed away from the sun in free telescope livestream on Nov. 16
Court clears Beersheba assault suspect of link to Haymanut Kasau disappearance, extends detention
2026 Golden Globes: How to watch, start time, TV channel, full nominee list and more
Israeli girl suffers cardiac arrest during sirens in Safed, hospitalized in serious condition












