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 Chicago-based Rainbow PUSH Coalition, an organization he established, provided an update on his health status.
According to the organization, Reverend Jackson has been dealing with a neurodegenerative condition for over ten years. Initially diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, his condition was later confirmed as PSP last April. The family has expressed gratitude for the thoughts and prayers during this time.
The renowned activist, who has dedicated more than six decades to fighting for racial equality and economic justice, disclosed his battle with Parkinson’s in 2018. He drew strength from his late friend, boxer Muhammad Ali, who succumbed to the same illness in 2016.
Having worked closely with Martin Luther King Jr., Reverend Jackson pursued a notable career in politics. Describing the challenges posed by the progressive neurological condition, he emphasized the importance of staying active and even recommended boxing as a beneficial activity.
Former US President Bill Clinton honored Reverend Jackson with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian award, in 2000. Additionally, for his unwavering commitment to civil rights causes, he has received over 40 honorary doctoral degrees.
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