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 night. The Chicago-based Rainbow PUSH Coalition, an organization he established, has provided an update on his condition.

According to the organization, Reverend Jackson has been dealing with a neurodegenerative condition for over ten years. Initially diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, he was later confirmed to have PSP last April. The family has expressed gratitude for the thoughts and prayers during this time.

Having dedicated more than six decades to advocating for racial equality and economic justice, the American leader disclosed his Parkinson’s battle in 2018. He drew strength from his close friend, the late boxer Muhammad Ali, who succumbed to the same disease in 2016.

The Baptist minister, who collaborated with Martin Luther King Jr in civil rights campaigns, ventured into a significant political career. Describing the challenges of his progressive neurological condition, he highlighted its impact on movement and daily tasks like dressing.

Reverend Jackson emphasized the importance of staying active and mentioned boxing as a beneficial activity. He recounted his boxing experiences in LA and expressed his determination to continue the regimen.

Former US President Bill Clinton bestowed upon Reverend Jackson the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in America, in 2000. Recognized for his unwavering civil rights activism, he has been awarded over 40 honorary doctoral degrees.

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