We use the word "hero" very loosely and casually. There are pretend "heroes" in films and TV shows. "Heroes" populate the baseball diamonds, basketball courts, football fields, and hockey rinks. They can hit a ball with a bat and haul a football into the end zone. We admire their prowess. However, we also occasionally encounter the true heroes who humbly walk among us. They ask for no fanfare for their daring deeds. However, they merit epic thanks for what they selflessly do. One of those larger-than-life people is Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger III, better known as the beloved Captain Sully. Per People, he will be welcomed into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in September. But that is not the only milestone he is focusing on now.
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All Those Aboard That Stricken Plane Sully Piloted Made It Out
In 2009, the now-retired US Airways pilot successfully landed a plane on the Hudson River. It was struck by birds, disabling both of its engines. Amazingly, all 155 passengers survived. Many credited Sully's cool thinking and unflappable demeanor with averting a deadly catastrophe. This reserved, unassuming man was suddenly a national figure being heaped with praise.
Now, he is facing a personal crisis that will demand all the valor and resolve he showed that day. Per his web site, Sully has announced that he has Alzheimer's Disease. At the age of 75, he is gearing up to make "this long journey."
Sully Wrote Movingly of the "Unwanted Visitor at the Door"
He wrote in part in the statement dated July 14, 2026, "...I recently found out I have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease. It is early stage...I am in the beginning of this long journey." Mentioning the disease, which he calls "the unwanted visitor at the door," Sully observed, "So this new phase of my life has challenged what it means to be of service. And the answer is to speak up. It is my hope that by sharing this, other families living in the shadows with this disease will feel they too can step forward."
Not surprisingly, Sully is using his own experience to help others who are similarly impacted by Alzheimer's.
He Looks Ahead With Optimism
Furthermore, Sully added, "And about hope - so many people told us after Flight 1549, that the outcome gave them hope. Lorrie, my incredible partner of 37 years, says we can all use a little of that hope right now. Though it may impact my memory of the past, this diagnosis will not prevent me from looking forward to and appreciating our future. I will navigate this chapter with my wonderful family by my side." The Sullenbergers have two daughters and a granddaughter.
"We Will Be Courageous Together"
Sully Sullenberger ended his statement with this expression of solidarity with those who are also dealing with Alzheimer's. "Over the years, when people would ask about the successful outcome of Flight 1549, I would say that "courage can be contagious," and on that day it helped everyone band together to get everyone off that airplane successfully. Now we need that courage to battle this disease. I am now part of a larger community with many of you, and we will be courageous together."
As we reflect on the meaning of America after our 250th anniversary. it seems like Captain Sully embodies the values we hold dear. That includes heart, strength, grace, determination, and moral clarity. We wish him, his family, and all those fighting Alzheimer's on "this long journey" the very best in the days to come.
