The FTD community extends its heartfelt support to Rev. Jesse Jackson and his family following the news today that the civil rights icon has been diagnosed with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a rare form of FTD.

According to ABC7 WLS Chicago, Jackson was hospitalized on Wednesday at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. The Rainbow PUSH Coalition, the organization Jackson founded to advance social justice, released a statement confirming that the 84-year-old leader is being observed for PSP, a neurodegenerative condition he has been managing for more than ten years. The statement noted that Jackson was initially given a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, but medical professionals confirmed his PSP diagnosis this past April.

UPDATE: Civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson has been released from Northwestern Memorial Hospital, the Rainbow PUSH Organization said, where he was receiving care to manage his blood pressure, according to CNN. In a statement, his family said, “We bear witness to the fact that prayer works and would also like to thank the professional, caring, and amazing medical and security staff at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. We humbly ask for your continued prayers throughout this precious time.” He is currently in stable condition and is returning to a residence.

A Legacy of Leadership and Advocacy

Jackson rose to national prominence in the 1960s as a close aide to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and has devoted more than six decades to fighting for racial equality, economic justice, and voting rights across the United States.

Jackson’s activism took many forms throughout his career. He launched presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988, breaking barriers for African American candidates on the national stage. He ran for President in 1984 and 1988; after leading Rainbow PUSH for nearly three decades, Jackson stepped down from his leadership role in 2023.

Understanding PSP

Sometimes referred to as Steele-Richardson-Olszewski syndrome, PSP is a rare neurological disorder that primarily affects several critical functions: walking, balance, eye movements, and swallowing.

The condition develops when brain cells in specific areas become damaged, though researchers have not yet identified a definitive cause of PSP. Symptoms typically emerge in a person’s mid-to-late 60s.

PSP shares some similarities with Parkinson’s disease, which explains Rev. Jackson’s initial misdiagnosis. Both conditions can cause movement difficulties, including slowed movements, stiffness, and balance problems. However, PSP has distinct characteristics, particularly its effect on eye movements and its tendency to progress more rapidly than Parkinson’s disease.

Living with PSP

For individuals and families facing a PSP diagnosis, understanding the condition is an important first step. While PSP is progressive and currently has no cure, there are ways to manage symptoms and maintain quality of life. Treatment approaches typically focus on addressing specific symptoms as they emerge, and may include physical therapy to help with balance and mobility, speech therapy for swallowing and communication difficulties, and various supportive interventions.

Rev. Jackson’s experience with an initial misdiagnosis underscores the importance of seeking care from specialists familiar with FTD and movement disorders.

The Importance of Community and Support

For families navigating PSP or other forms of FTD, connecting with supportive communities like AFTD can make a meaningful difference. AFTD offers resources, education, and connection to others who understand the unique challenges these conditions present.

Rev. Jackson’s openness about his health challenges—first with his Parkinson’s diagnosis in 2017, and now with PSP—helps reduce stigma and increase awareness of these conditions. His family has requested prayers during this time, and AFTD joins them in hoping for Rev. Jackson’s comfort and well-being.

While the path ahead may be difficult, no one should face it alone. AFTD stands ready to help Rev. Jackson and his family with resources they may need on their FTD journey. Through continued research, improved care, and compassionate support networks, we work toward a future where better treatments and ultimately a cure become reality for those affected by PSP and all forms of FTD.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with PSP or another form of FTD, AFTD is here to help. Visit our website for educational resources, support group information, and ways to connect with others in the FTD community.