
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
France will build a new aircraft carrier as it increases defense spending - 2
HR exec caught on Coldplay 'kiss cam' with boss finally breaks her silence: 'I made a bad decision and had a couple of High Noons' - 3
Figure out how to Perceive Warnings while Looking for an Auto Collision Lawyer - 4
Warning for snow and ice extended - 5
European nations criticise Israel’s death penalty plans
The Main 20 Gaming Control center Ever
Putin critic gets six years in penal colony, vows hunger strike
She loves to give experiences. He goes for sentimental gifts. They ask an expert: What is the perfect holiday present?
As tetanus vaccination rates decline, doctors worry about rising case numbers
Figure out How to Recognize Early Indications of Depressions
‘Aid for Ukraine’ pierogi fundraiser event
The Tradition of Stone: A Gander at Notable Structures Through the Ages
Overlooked infertility care should be part of national health services, says WHO
ABC News' Sam Champion opens up about recent health scare












