Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, the pilot celebrated for the 2009 “Miracle on the Hudson” water landing that saved all 155 people aboard, has revealed he is in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. In a brief note on his personal website, he said he has started to notice memory slip-ups, names that will not surface as quickly as before and sleep that is no longer as steady, describing it as the beginning of this long journey.” For Bay Area readers who have watched his post-flight life as an aviation-safety expert and familiar local figure, the news hit close to home.
Sullenberger’s Announcement
“I recently found out I have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. It is early stage,” Sullenberger wrote in a message on his site, according to ABC7. He explained that he has begun having trouble recalling names, sometimes repeats stories he has just told and is dealing with sleep disturbances, adding that he is in the beginning of this long journey. ABC7 reported on the statement after it appeared on his personal page.
Why Bay Area Readers Know Him
The 2009 landing on the Hudson River turned Sullenberger into a national figure, and coverage of that day and his career has continued ever since, including by CBS News. CBS identified Sullenberger as being from Danville, California, and highlighted his later work as an aviation-safety consultant and public speaker. That Bay Area connection helps explain the local interest, and the emotional reaction, as word of his diagnosis spread.
What “Early-Stage” Typically Looks Like
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, early-stage Alzheimer’s usually brings mild but noticeable problems with memory, such as forgetting names, misplacing everyday items and having difficulty finding the right words, while many people are still able to function independently. The organization notes that getting a diagnosis at this point can give patients and families crucial time to plan care, review possible treatment options and, if they choose, look into clinical trials and support services.
Sullenberger Said Sharing Could Help Others
ABC7 reports that Sullenberger framed his decision to go public as an effort to reduce stigma and to encourage families who are worried about memory changes to seek information and medical help. His note was direct and personal, acknowledging the changes he has noticed while emphasizing that he is still at an early point in the illness…