Rev. Jesse Jackson faces severe health challenges before death
Rev. Jesse Jackson faces severe health challenges before death
- Rev. Jesse Jackson was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in November 2017 and later had his diagnosis changed to Progressive Supranuclear Palsy.
- He faced multiple health challenges and hospitalizations, including a serious bout with COVID-19 alongside his wife in August 2021.
- Despite these struggles, Jackson remained committed to civil rights work until his death at age 84.
Story
Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr., the renowned civil rights activist and former presidential candidate, passed away at the age of 84. His health issues began to surface in November 2017 when he revealed his diagnosis of Parkinson's disease. This neurodegenerative disorder is known for affecting motor functions and leads to the gradual weakening of nerve cells. Jesse's family noticed changes in his health approximately three years prior to this announcement, which deeply affected him as his father had succumbed to the same disease. In April 2021, Jackson's doctors made a critical shift in his diagnosis, changing it from Parkinson's disease to Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP). This condition, while exhibiting symptoms similar to Parkinson's, is characterized by a later onset and more rapid progression. Following this diagnosis, Jackson faced a series of hospitalizations, including one in January 2021, triggered by complaints of abdominal discomfort. Despite these challenges, he continued to remain actively involved in civil rights advocacy and maintained a positive outlook, as noted in public statements released by his family during this time. In August 2021, both Jesse and his wife, Jacqueline Jackson, were hospitalized after contracting COVID-19. Their son, Jonathan Jackson, provided updates indicating that both were receiving excellent care from medical professionals. While Jesse was eventually transferred to a rehabilitation facility after a week, Jacqueline required more intensive care before being moved out of the ICU. Their shared experience during the pandemic showcased the extent of their health battles, coupled with the unyielding spirit of their commitment to activism. Jesse Jackson faced additional health setbacks later that year when he was hospitalized in November following a fall during a protest at Howard University regarding poor living conditions. This incident underscored his dedication to advocating for change despite the rapidly advancing effects of his health conditions. His family reported that he was discharged from the rehabilitation facility shortly before Christmas in December 2021. His long-standing illness ultimately culminated in his death, marking the end of a poignant chapter in the struggle for civil rights in America.