Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr. Discharged From Acute Care Facility, Family Provides Health Update

Jackson, 83, had received care at the facility after his recent release from Northwestern Memorial Hospital. According to the family, he has spent the past several months battling multiple infections associated with the progression of progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a rare neurological disorder.

“This has been quite a journey for our immediate family, the many people my father interacts with daily, and the people whose lives he has touched,” said Yusef Jackson, the reverend’s son and family spokesperson, in a statement. “We are deeply grateful to gather with family at our table, knowing that this blessing is not shared by all.”

Yusef Jackson added that the family is keeping in its thoughts those who are facing illness or loss during the holiday season. “We hold in our hearts and prayers those who are navigating this season without loved ones, extending love, comfort, and compassion to every family experiencing loss,” he said.

Rev. Jackson, the founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition and a longtime figure in national civil rights and political movements, was first diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2013. In April, doctors revised his diagnosis to progressive supranuclear palsy, a condition that affects movement, balance, speech, and cognitive function.

The Jackson family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of prayers and messages of support they have received from around the country and beyond.

“We are thankful for the heartfelt appreciation and kindness shown during this time,” the family said, adding that periodic updates on Rev. Jackson’s condition will continue to be shared as appropriate.

No additional details were provided about his current treatment plan or long-term prognosis.