Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger Announces Alzheimer’s Diagnosis
Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, the retired pilot who gained international acclaim for the emergency landing of US Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson River, announced on Tuesday that he has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
Sullenberger, 75, described his condition as early stage. In a statement posted to his website and social media, he noted that the diagnosis currently impacts his sleep and memory, such as occasionally forgetting names or recent stories. “I am in the beginning of this long journey,” Sullenberger wrote.
US Airways Flight 1549 Rescue and Aviation Career
The retired pilot, who safely landed his plane on the Hudson River on Jan. 15, 2009, after a bird strike disabled both engines, saved the lives of all 155 people on board. The event became widely known as the “Miracle on the Hudson” and was later dramatized in the 2016 film Sully. Following the incident, Sullenberger retired in 2010 after a 30-year career and became a prominent advocate for aviation safety.
Alzheimer’s Association Data on Dementia Prevalence
By sharing his diagnosis, Sullenberger said he hopes to encourage other families living with the disease to step forward. Citing data from the Alzheimer’s Association, he noted that more than 7 million Americans are currently living with the condition, which is the most common cause of dementia and has no cure.
Sullenberger’s Call for Courage Among Patients
Reflecting on his past experience, Sullenberger drew a parallel between the teamwork required during the 2009 emergency and his current health challenge. “Over the years, when people would ask about the successful outcome of Flight 1549, I would say that ‘courage can be contagious,’” he stated. “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.”
Sullenberger added that he intends to navigate this chapter with his family by his side, noting that while the diagnosis may affect his memory of the past, it will not prevent him from looking forward to the future.
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