Freddie Jackson has been diagnosed with kidney disease, the R&B singer shared in videos posted on his social media channels on September 4.
“After much thought and consideration, I’ve come to a point where I feel I’m ready to talk about a recent chapter in my life,” Jackson, 67, said in the video.
“I was diagnosed with kidney disease. This journey has had its challenges, but I have decided to face them with openness and resilience.”
“It’s important to me to share this with you, not just as part of my personal story, but as a way to make a positive difference,” he said, announcing that he is partnering with the National Kidney Foundation to raise awareness about kidney health and provide support to those who are affected by kidney disease.
Jackson, who was on top BillboardThe 1980s R&B singles chart hitter with a string of hits including “You Are My Lady,” “Have You Ever Loved Somebody,” and “Jam Tonight,” said he hopes his work with the National Kidney Foundation “will help shine a light on the importance of this issue.”
He thanked his fans for their support, saying, “As I take this step, I am turning my personal experience into a platform for greater understanding and advocacy. With your help, we can work towards greater awareness and improved outcomes for everyone with kidney disease.”
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Kidney disease, the Mayo Clinic explains, “involves the gradual loss of kidney function.”
Treatment “focuses on slowing the progression of kidney damage, usually by controlling the cause,” which can range from inflammation, diabetes or high blood pressure.
The disease can progress to end-stage renal failure, “which is fatal without artificial filtration (dialysis) or a kidney transplant.”
Freddie Jackson performs in London in 1988.
Michael Putland/Getty
Besides the kidneys, the disease can affect “almost every part of your body,” the Mayo Clinic says, leading to weak bones, heart disease, or a lowered immune response.
The US Centers for Disease Control estimates that 1 in 7 Americans has chronic kidney disease — and 9 in 10 don’t even know they have it.
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Jackson ended his video by thanking his fans, saying, “Thank you for your encouragement, love and support. It means more to me than I can express.”
“From the bottom of my heart, I love you.”
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Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education