A towering figure in the fight for civil rights, Reverend Jesse Jackson, 84, is currently hospitalized. He is being observed for Progressive Supranuclear Palsy, a long-term neurodegenerative condition he has privately battled for over a decade.
Initially diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2015, Jackson received a more precise diagnosis of PSP last April. This rare neurological disorder impacts movement, balance, and coordination, often mimicking Parkinson’s but typically progressing at a faster rate.
Jackson first publicly acknowledged his health struggles in 2017, admitting the diagnosis was painful and difficult to accept. He spoke of the increasing challenges he faced with everyday tasks, recalling how the disease had also affected his father.
PSP typically manifests in the mid-to-late 60s, often leading to severe disability within three to five years. Complications can be serious, including pneumonia, choking, and injuries from falls, highlighting the relentless nature of the condition.
Reverend Jackson’s legacy extends far beyond his personal health battles. He stood shoulder-to-shoulder with marchers in Selma, Alabama, in 1965, enduring the brutality of “Bloody Sunday” as he fought for voting rights.
Just three years later, tragedy struck as he witnessed the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the Lorraine Motel, a moment that profoundly shaped his life and commitment to social justice.
A dynamic and influential leader, Jackson twice sought the presidency in the 1980s, galvanizing a nation with his message of hope and opportunity. In 2000, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor.
Even after his diagnosis, Jackson remained a powerful voice for change. He spearheaded voter registration drives, adding millions of voters to the rolls and continuing to advocate for the marginalized and disenfranchised.
His determination never wavered, as he declared in 2016, “Our fire has never gone down.” This unwavering spirit was evident even during recent health setbacks, including a hospitalization for COVID-19 and a fall.
Despite declining health and speech, Jackson’s mind remained sharp. Last year, he made a poignant appearance at the Democratic National Convention, receiving a standing ovation as he was wheeled onto the stage.
Earlier this year, he returned to Selma to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Bloody Sunday, a powerful symbol of his enduring commitment to the cause he has championed for decades. His presence served as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice.
In 2023, Jackson stepped down as head of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, the organization he built to continue the fight for civil rights. Yet, his influence and inspiration continue to resonate throughout the nation.
