Rev. Jesse Jackson 'not on life support,' family says in update

Published: Monday, November 17, 2025 at 2:55 pm

Rev. Jesse Jackson in Stable Condition, Family Says

CHICAGO, November 17 (UPI) – Civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson is in stable condition following hospitalization for a rare neurological condition, according to a statement released by his family. The update, posted on the website of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, the organization Jackson founded, was issued in response to what the family called "inaccurate media reports."

The statement clarified that Rev. Jackson is breathing independently and is not on life support. His son, Yusef Jackson, also shared that his father is actively involved, calling for 2,000 churches to prepare food baskets to combat malnutrition during the holiday season.

Last week, the family announced that the 84-year-old was admitted to the hospital for observation related to progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). The family's statement noted that Rev. Jackson has been managing the condition for over a decade, though it was initially misdiagnosed as Parkinson's disease. Doctors confirmed the PSP diagnosis in April.

Rev. Jackson publicly revealed his Parkinson's diagnosis in November 2017, citing difficulties with daily tasks and mobility. PSP is a rare and progressive neurological disorder with no known cure. It often presents symptoms similar to Parkinson's, leading to frequent misdiagnosis. Symptoms of PSP can include difficulties with walking and balance, speech abnormalities, cognitive issues, eye movement problems, and tremors. The Cleveland Clinic estimates that approximately 1 in 100,000 people are diagnosed with PSP annually, while 1 in 20,000 have the disease.

BNN's Perspective:

The news of Rev. Jackson's hospitalization and the subsequent clarification from his family underscores the importance of accurate reporting, especially concerning public figures. While the severity of PSP is undeniable, the fact that Rev. Jackson remains active and engaged in his work is a testament to his resilience. We hope for his continued recovery and wish him well.

Keywords: Jesse Jackson, civil rights, hospitalization, progressive supranuclear palsy, PSP, neurological condition, Rainbow PUSH Coalition, Parkinson's disease, health, medical, stable condition, Yusef Jackson, Chicago, Cleveland Clinic, rare disease, news, update

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