The Rev. Jesse Jackson, a towering figure in American civil rights history, is currently in a Chicago hospital grappling with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). His organization, the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, shared that Jackson has been managing this neurodegenerative condition for over a decade. Originally diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, the confirmation of his PSP condition came in April.
PSP is a rare and severe neurological disorder. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, it impacts body movements, walking, balance, and eye movements. Unlike Parkinson’s, which typically develops earlier, PSP usually strikes in a person’s mid to late 60s and carries a grim prognosis—leading to significant disability within three to five years and with no effective treatments available.
Jackson’s connection to the civil rights movement is profound. As a protégé of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., he witnessed history’s darker moments firsthand, including King’s assassination in 1968. This connection is a source of deep personal pain and public significance. Jackson’s entry into national politics came in 1984 when he made history as the first Black presidential candidate to gain substantial support within the Democratic Party. His candidacy was then part of a broader political landscape that has undergone significant shifts, particularly regarding social issues.
Over the years, Jackson has been candid about his health challenges. He revealed his Parkinson’s diagnosis in 2017, sharing the struggle he faced when symptoms began affecting his daily life. His family had begun noticing changes a few years prior, and he reflected on how Parkinson’s had severely impacted his father, bringing a personal connection to his own battle.
Despite health setbacks, including hospitalization for COVID-19 and a fall that resulted in injuries, Jackson has remained a visible figure in American politics. He was present at the Democratic National Convention last year, appearing in a wheelchair, yet he still carried the legacy of his dedication to civil rights.
Jackson represents a rich history of activism and resilience against adversity. His enduring spirit encapsulates the struggles and triumphs of the civil rights era, while his current health battles highlight the human fragility faced by all, even public icons. His organization has expressed gratitude for the prayers and support during this challenging time, reflecting the community and familial bonds forged through decades of advocacy and shared history.
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