Civil Rights Icon Jesse Jackson Discharged After Neurological Treatment
CHICAGO — The Rev. Jesse Jackson has returned home after being discharged from a Chicago medical facility where he received treatment for a progressive neurological condition, his family announced Tuesday.
The 84-year-old civil rights leader left Northwestern Memorial Hospital on Monday, according to his son Yusef Jackson, who serves as a family spokesperson. Jackson had been hospitalized since November 14 for management of progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a neurodegenerative disorder.
Initially diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2013, Jackson’s condition was reclassified as PSP in April of this year. The rare neurological disorder shares some symptoms with Parkinson’s but follows a distinct clinical course.
Yusef Jackson expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support during his father’s hospitalization, stating, “We extend our heartfelt thanks to the countless friends and supporters who have reached out, visited and prayed for our father.” He also acknowledged the medical and security staff at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and requested continued prayers for the family during this period.
During his hospital stay, Jackson received visits from prominent figures including former President Bill Clinton, former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, civil rights leader Rev. Al Sharpton, and television personality Judge Greg Mathis.
Despite his health challenges, Jackson remained active in public life until recently. After announcing his Parkinson’s diagnosis in 2017, he continued to make appearances, including at the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. He stepped down from leadership of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition in 2023 but maintained regular office visits until several months ago.
The civil rights pioneer now requires around-the-clock care at home. Family members describe him as using a wheelchair, having difficulty keeping his eyes open, and being unable to speak. His sons, U.S. Rep. Jonathan Jackson and former Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr., along with other relatives, have been providing care in shifts.
Jackson’s legacy includes his work as a key assistant to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., two presidential campaigns, and his founding of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, which grew from Operation PUSH, established in 1971.
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