Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, the pilot known for the “Miracle on the Hudson,” has publicly shared that he is living with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. In a statement announcing his diagnosis, Sullenberger said he hopes that speaking openly will encourage other families affected by Alzheimer’s to step forward and inspire hope.

Dr. Richard Isaacson, IND’s Director of Research, emphasized the importance of public figures helping to raise awareness:

“Alzheimer’s is scary. People who are fearful and concerned and worried get paralyzed into inaction, and they don’t make brain-healthy choices. They don’t see their doctor, they don’t learn about all the new FDA-approved drugs that are out there and lifestyle changes. When someone speaks up who is respected and loved, I think it inspires conversation.”