Sully Sullenberger, 75, Announces Early-Stage Alzheimer’s After Saving 155 in 2009
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Jul 14
Sully Sullenberger, 75, Announces Early-Stage Alzheimer’s After Saving 155 in 2009
3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Jul 14
Summary
Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger said Tuesday he has early-stage Alzheimer’s disease, calling it “the beginning of this long journey.”
The 75-year-old said he went public to help other families “living in the shadows” step forward, describing symptoms including memory lapses and poorer sleep.
Sullenberger became a national figure in 2009 after landing US Airways Flight 1549 in the Hudson River when both engines failed after a bird strike, saving all 155 people aboard.
After retiring in 2010, he pushed for stronger aviation safety rules and later served as U.S. ambassador to the International Civil Aviation Organization under a 2021 Biden nomination.
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America said his disclosure could reduce stigma around a disease affecting an estimated 7.4 million Americans.