Singer Freddie Jackson revealed he has been diagnosed with kidney disease.
The 67-year-old behind hits such as 1985’s “You Are My Lady” shared the news with his fans on his social media channels.
“After a lot of thought and reflection, I’ve come to a point where I feel I’m ready to talk about a recent chapter in my life,” Jackson said in a video.
“I have been diagnosed with kidney disease,” he said, adding that he’s “decided to face it with openness and resilience.”
In a caption posted on Instagram accompanying the video, he wrote, “This journey has been challenging, but I am not facing it alone. My close friends, my manager and music family, and all of you are here with me, keeping me going.”
Jackson dominated the Billboard Hot R&B and Hip Hop Songs singles chart, garnering 10 No. 1 hits with songs such as “Have You Ever Loved Somebody” and “Jam Tonight.”
“It’s important to me that I share this with you, not just as a part of my personal story, but as a way to make a positive difference,” the two-time Grammy nominee also said in his video.
Jackson went on to announce that he has partnered with the National Kidney Foundation to “raise awareness and support for others affected by this condition.”
According to the Mayo Clinic, “chronic kidney disease, also called chronic kidney failure, involves a gradual loss of kidney function.”
Treatment for the disease “focuses on slowing the progression of kidney damage, usually by controlling the cause.” Those who experience kidney failure require treatment such as a kidney transplant or dialysis.
The CDC estimates that more than one in seven adults in the US — about 35.5 million people — have chronic kidney disease and that as many as 90% do not know they have it.
Jackson added that he hopes his partnership with the National Kidney Foundation will “help shine a light on the importance of this issue.”
“As I take this step, I’m turning my personal experience into a platform for greater understanding and advocacy. With your help, we can work toward better awareness and improved outcomes for everyone with kidney disease.”
To his fans, Jackson said, “Thank you for your encouragement, your love and your support.”
“It means more to me than I can express,” he added. “From the bottom of my heart, I love you.”