Capt. Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, known for his emergency landing on the Hudson River in 2009, announced his early stage Alzheimer’s diagnosis. He shared this information on social media, revealing how the condition currently affects him. “A name may not come easily to me, I forget a story I have recently told, or I don’t sleep as well,” he wrote.
His statement was initially shared with People magazine. Alzheimer’s disease is a common cause of dementia, impacting memory and cognitive skills without a known cure.
Sullenberger became a national hero on January 15, 2009, when he safely landed US Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson River. After both engines failed due to a bird strike, Sullenberger and his crew quickly decided on an emergency water landing. All 155 passengers aboard were successfully evacuated and rescued by first responders. This event became known as the “Miracle on the Hudson,” later depicted in the 2016 film “Sully.”
Sullenberger, who contributed to CBS News as an aviation safety expert, has since recognized the prevalence of Alzheimer’s. The Alzheimer’s Association states over 7 million Americans live with this condition.
The retired pilot encourages others with Alzheimer’s to speak out. “When people asked about Flight 1549’s success, I would say ‘courage can be contagious.'” He now calls for the same courage to confront Alzheimer’s. “I am now part of a larger community with many of you, and we will be courageous together,” he added.
“Now we need that courage to battle this disease. I am now part of a larger community with many of you, and we will be courageous together.” – Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger
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