Retired pilot Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, known for the “Miracle on the Hudson,” announces that he has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. In statements reported by multiple outlets, Sullenberger says he is in the beginning stages of what he describes as a long journey and expresses hope that sharing his diagnosis will encourage other families affected by the disease to come forward. The reporting characterizes the disclosure as part of his effort to raise visibility around Alzheimer’s and the challenges faced by those living with the condition and their loved ones.
Both sources describe the same core message: Sullenberger acknowledges the diagnosis publicly, indicates that he is early in the progression, and frames the announcement as supportive and intended to reduce isolation for other families dealing with Alzheimer’s. The articles do not add conflicting details about the diagnosis itself or the timing beyond his description of being at the start of the journey.
