From ABC7 New York · · 1m 10s
Sully shares Alzheimer's diagnosis, last flight
Sully Sullenberger reveals early Alzheimer's symptoms and his 'last flight' plan.
In brief
Sully Sullenberger reveals early Alzheimer's symptoms and his 'last flight' plan. Sully Sullenberger, 75, shares early Alzheimer's symptoms and plans to speak publicly about his diagnosis after a 2009 emergency landing. Originally reported by ABC7 New York.
Alzheimer's diagnosis
Capt. Chesley 'Sully' Sullenberger, 75, revealed early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease after being diagnosed in July.
“Sullenberger, who became known around the world after safely landing a flight carrying over 150 passengers and crew members in New York City's Hudson River in 2009, said his experience during the emergency landing has helped him approach his Alzheimer's diagnosis.”
Early symptoms
Sullenberger described forgetfulness, trouble remembering names, and repeating himself as early signs of Alzheimer's.
“Sully Sullenberger said some of the first symptoms he experienced included forgetfulness, having trouble remembering people's names and repeating himself.”
Family response
Lorrie Sullenberger said early symptoms were easy to dismiss and advised others to recognize what's unusual for their person.
“Lorrie Sullenberger said her husband's symptoms were 'easy to dismiss' in the early stages.”
Public disclosure
Sullenberger and his family decided to speak publicly after initially planning to keep the diagnosis private.
“Both Lorrie Sullenberger and her husband said they initially planned to keep his Alzheimer's diagnosis private, but felt it was important to speak out to hopefully help others.”
Treatment plan
Sullenberger is undergoing monthly infusion treatment to slow Alzheimer's progression, which currently has no cure.
“Nearly three months after publicly revealing his diagnosis, Sully Sullenberger said he is currently undergoing monthly infusion treatment to try to slow the progression of the disease, which currently has no cure.”
Family priorities
Sullenberger and his family prioritize time together as they navigate the uncertainty of his diagnosis.
“Being together and spending time together has been the priority, Kelly told Roberts.”
Last flight
Sullenberger described his induction into the National Aviation Hall of Fame as a 'great honor' and his 'last flight' as using full afterburner.
“That this is my last flight, Sully Sullenberger said. But if this has to be my last flight, I'm going to go out using full afterburner.”
Future plans
Sullenberger hopes his public disclosure of Alzheimer's will help others understand the disease and its impact.
“This is a disease, not a character flaw, Lorrie Sullenberger said.”
The short version
Sully Sullenberger, 75, shares early Alzheimer's symptoms and plans to speak publicly about his diagnosis after a 2009 emergency landing.
