Sully Sullenberger urges early Alzheimer's testing in first TV interview
Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger and his wife Lorrie appeared on Good Morning America to promote early testing for Alzheimer’s after his recent diagnosis.
Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, famed for the 2009 Hudson River landing, sat with Robin Roberts on Good Morning America to talk about his recent early-stage Alzheimer’s diagnosis, confirmed in August 2025. He and his wife Lorrie described noticing minor memory lapses years before the formal test and emphasized the importance of early screening to improve outcomes. The couple highlighted how their two daughters and a granddaughter bring optimism to their journey.
Sullenberger credited his doctor, Dr Gil Rabinovici of UCSF Medical Center, for raising awareness of the disease’s prevalence. He called on the public to act quickly if they suspect symptoms, arguing that early intervention can make management easier.
Why it matters
Early Alzheimer’s detection can improve treatment options, and a high-profile figure advocating it may encourage more people to get tested.
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