Joe Jackson Suffers Stroke During Birthday Celebration In Brazil

Joe Jackson, father of the late musical legend Michael Jackson, was admitted to a hospital in Brazil over the weekend after suffering a stroke, USA Today reports.Jackson was in the country celebrating his 87th birthday and planned on attending a bash in his honor. However, he was taken to Albert Einstein hospital in Sao Paulo, where doctors discovered he had an irregular heartbeat. Jackson tweeted photos of himself dining in restaurants with his latest artist, French singer Angelina, and fans just a day before the hospitalization.

His daughters also sent him birthday wishes on Twitter:

Jackson was seen on a press run discussing his artist and visiting the Corinthians Soccer Stadium, where players mentor children. He was also given an honorary jersey by Edu Gasper, the current director of the Corinthians Soccer Club.

Jackson opened up about his health while penning an open letter to Janet last week. After mentioning how he suffered four strokes last year, he thanked Janet for nursing him back to health with love and support.

“When I suffered 4 strokes last year, and was in the hospital recovering, only two people in my family traveled all the way to see in the hospital.” he said on his blog. “My granddaughter Brandi (Jackie’s daughter and my baby girl Janet. She sat right next to me as I lay in bed, spent time with me, talking about a lot together. It meant a lot to me. I lay there listening to her as she talked about how she was going to get married. I am happy for her and wish her nothing but the best ! I never tell you this, but I am proud of you Janet.”

Jackson is currently recovering in the hospital’s intensive care unit.