Capt. Sully Sullenberger Discloses Alzheimer’s Diagnosis

Chesley 'Sully' Sullenberger, the retired airline captain renowned for piloting US Airways Flight 1549 to a safe emergency landing on the Hudson River in 2009, announced this week that he has been diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer's disease. Sullenberger shared this personal news in a statement released on January 17, 2024, expressing his intention to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding the neurodegenerative condition.

In his statement, Sullenberger conveyed that he is "in the beginning of this long journey" with Alzheimer's. He articulated a personal hope that by openly discussing his diagnosis, other families who are navigating the challenges of this disease in private will feel empowered to come forward and seek support. This proactive approach aims to foster a more open dialogue about Alzheimer's and its impact on individuals and their loved ones.

Sullenberger, often referred to as 'Sully,' became a national hero following the "Miracle on the Hudson" incident, where he and his crew successfully landed a disabled Airbus A320 in the frigid waters of the Hudson River, saving all 155 people on board. His calm demeanor and decisive actions during the crisis earned him widespread admiration and recognition. The pilot has remained a public figure, advocating for aviation safety and other causes since his retirement from commercial flying.

The announcement of his diagnosis marks a new chapter for Sullenberger, as he plans to continue living his life with purpose while managing his health. His decision to share his experience underscores a commitment to public service, extending beyond his celebrated aviation career to address a critical health issue affecting millions globally. The Alzheimer's Association reports that over 6 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer's disease, with numbers projected to rise significantly in the coming years.