Jesse Jackson's Parkinson's Revelation Sparks Support on Twitter

The Rev. Jesse Jackson announced Friday he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2015 and is engaging in aggressive physical therapy.

Jackson, 76, released a letter on Twitter about the diagnosis, saying he's had to make lifestyle changes because of the disease and that he “would rather wear out than rust out.”

The news of his Parkinson’s diagnosis comes just days after a journalist for the website The Root came forward and accused Jackson of sexual harassment at a media event three years ago. 

A spokesman for Jackson said the civil rights activist didn’t remember the incident but “sincerely regrets” any pain he may have caused, NBC Chicago reported.

Twitter users including Sen. Kamala Harris wished Jackson well and offered their support.

I know Jesse Jackson will keep hope alive as he battles Parkinson's disease and continues his tireless commitment to justice and civil rights. Praying for him and his family.https://t.co/5vlQzWJGTA

— Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) November 17, 2017

Reverend Jesse Jackson has come out and stated he has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.

My thoughts and prayers go out to him and his family as they battle this terrible disease. pic.twitter.com/TOzLnzhwv5

— Red T Raccoon (@RedTRaccoon) November 17, 2017

Sending love and many prayers to Rev.Jesse Jackson who just reveled he has Parkinson’s disease. He has paved the way for so many of us. Truly thankful for his life of public service and being a man of principle and of the cloth.

— stephon (@STEP_HON) November 17, 2017

Whether we see eye to eye or not Jesse has my prayers.

— Kelley Tolck (@katolck) November 17, 2017

Don’t always agree with his messages, but I send well wishes for his future and the willpower to persist. Godspeed!

— Alycee ⚓️ (@leecee517) November 17, 2017

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