Sullenberger Announces Early-Stage Alzheimer's Diagnosis
Sullenberger diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer's disease in August 2025.
Event / Health
Chesley Sullenberger Alzheimer's Diagnosis
Captain Chesley 'Sully' Sullenberger, pilot of the 2009 Hudson River emergency landing, announces early-stage Alzheimer's disease diagnosis in July 2026. He aims to raise awareness about the disease affecting millions globally.
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2026-08-16 to 2026-11-13 · UTC publication dates
Coverage begins 15 Jul, 01:01 UTC
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What happened
Captain Chesley Sullenberger diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer's disease
Captain Chesley B. "Sully" Sullenberger III, age 75, announced on Tuesday that he has been diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer's disease. He revealed the diagnosis through a post on his personal website. Sullenberger stated that the condition currently affects his ability to recall names and recently told stories, and impacts his sleep. His doctor is Dr. Gil Rabinovici with UCSF Medical Center.
Sullenberger received Alzheimer's diagnosis in August 2025
Captain Sullenberger received his official Alzheimer's disease diagnosis in August 2025, though he made the public announcement in July 2026. He noted that despite having a photographic memory, he had experienced trouble recalling details within the year prior to diagnosis.
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