Capt. Chesley Sullenberger Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease

Capt. Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, renowned for landing a commercial airplane on the Hudson River, shared a personal health update recently. He revealed a diagnosis of early-stage Alzheimer’s disease.

On January 15, 2009, Sullenberger successfully landed US Airways Flight 1549 in the Hudson River following a bird strike that disabled both engines. This event, remembered as the “Miracle on the Hudson,” involved saving 155 passengers.

Sullenberger explained in his statement the impact of his condition. He mentioned occasional forgetfulness, difficulties in recalling names, and disrupted sleep patterns. He is at the beginning of what he described as a long journey.

Alzheimer’s is a widespread disease affecting millions across all age groups. His doctor emphasized the indiscriminate nature of the disease. It is a challenge faced by many, described by Sullenberger as “the unwanted visitor at the door.”

The pilot’s extraordinary landing on the Hudson River was dramatized in the 2016 film “Sully,” starring Tom Hanks. Passengers from Flight 1549 expressed their belief in Sullenberger’s skill and fortune, with some describing it as being “guided by angels.”

Reflecting on the successful outcome of Flight 1549, Sullenberger noted courage as a contagious quality. He recalled how courage unified those onboard during the emergency. He now calls for similar courage in confronting Alzheimer’s, aligning himself with the broader community affected by the disease.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, approximately 7.4 million Americans currently manage life with Alzheimer’s disease. At present, there is no known cure.