
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
New Year's Eve Live: Nashville's Big Bash: How to watch the star-studded country music special live - 2
EU agrees on agriculture safeguards as fronts harden in Mercosur deal - 3
What you need to know about Trump accounts as Michael and Susan Dell donate $6 billion to the new early childhood investment program - 4
Tanzania president remorseful over internet shutdown on election day - 5
One spent $20 on candy. Another paid $700 for a custom costume. Here's how Halloween costs stacked up this year.
Heart disease risk greater for women with a common condition they may not be aware they have
Manual for Notorious Fragrances: Immortal Aromas
Must-See Attractions in Washington, D.C.
Watch India launch advanced military satellite on rocket's 1st flight since May 2025 failure
Most loved Well known Accessory Styles For 2024
The top astronomical discoveries of 2025
Father and son spending Christmas together after health scares
Vote in favor of your Number one Kind of Gems
New York to require social media platforms to display mental health warnings













