Jackson was admitted to The Queen's Medical Center Oct. 24 after suffering complications from what was diagnosed as a viral infection.

A school official said Jackson is expected to soon undergo surgery to replace a heart valve. Doctors are awaiting Jackson's condition to stabilize before performing the surgery.

The UH football coaches learned of Jackson's condition after returning from a trip to Fresno last weekend. The coaches have visited Jackson several times, and the defensive backs went to the hospital Wednesday night. "He's like a son to me, and it hurts very much to see him in pain," said assistant Rich Miano, who coaches the UH defensive backs.

Jackson was a four-year starter at free safety before completing his football eligibility last December. He competed in the New Orleans Saints' training camp before leaving to tend to family matters.

Jackson also is a senior outfielder on the UH baseball team. He played for the Warrior baseball team in 2000, sat out last season to concentrate on football workouts, and returned this fall. "He's a tough guy, and we know he's going to make it," Miano said. "We're all pulling for him."