Rev. Jesse Jackson Not On Life Support Despite Reports, Family Says

Reports of Rev. Jesse Jackson being on life support are, in fact, not true. This is according to a recent statement from the civil rights leader’s family. “Contrary to specific reports, he is not on life support,” the family said in a statement to Newsweek via Jackson’s Rainbow PUSH Coalition (RPC) on Sunday (Nov.16).

While the activist was hospitalized earlier this week—stemming from a long-standing neurological condition—multiple outlets had recently claimed he was clinging to life in a Chicago hospital. Luckily, that is not the case. “Reverend Jackson is in stable condition and is breathing without the assistance of machines,” the family said in RPC’s statement. “He remains under the care of physicians as he manages progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) — a neurological disorder with which he was diagnosed in April.”

“Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a rare neurological disorder,” according to the National Institute of Health

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), “Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a rare neurological disorder that affects body movements, walking and balance, and eye movements. PSP is caused by damage to nerve cells in areas of the brain that control thinking and body movements.”

Following Jackson’s hospitalization on Wednesday, a family spokesperson said in a statement that Jackson remains steadfast despite his health challenges. “Reverend Jesse L. Jackson Sr. was admitted to the hospital today and is currently under observation for Progressive Supranuclear Palsy. He has been managing this neurodegenerative condition for more than a decade. He was originally diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease; however, last April, his PSP condition was confirmed. The family appreciates all prayers at this time.”