U.S. Air Flight 1549 Survivor Pays It Forward
Dave Sanderson Is Making An Impact
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Dave Sanderson was the very last passenger to get off U.S. Air Flight 15–49 after it made an emergency landing on the Hudson River in 2009.
Sanderson spoke at the Red Cross’ Annual meeting in Fargo and KVRR tells you how his life was forever changed.
Dave Sanderson flew regularly for work so to him it was a routine.
His flight took off from LaGuardia Airport in New York City and within 30–minutes things changed.
Dave Sanderson says, “It was no big deal until you heard the explosion on the plane. Captain Sullenberger said brace for impact.”
The pilot, Chesley Sullenberger, had flown for the United States Air Force and had special training taught him what to do.
The U.S. Air Flight 1549 survivor says, “All of a sudden he’s going down towards the river.”
Sanderson says he was the last passenger to get out of the plane.
He says he never made it on the wing like many of the 150 passengers did.
Instead, he was helping others get to safety.
Sanderson says, “If you do the right thing God will take care of you.”
When Sanderson was rescued, he had nothing.
The Red Cross gave him and the other survivors blankets.
To those who had lost everything, it represented hope.
Red Cross Judy Green says, “You’re coming out of the water. Frigid frigid water and have hypothermia. Think of how the importance of what a warm blanket can do.”
Since his miracle on the Hudson, Sanderson pays it forward.
He says, “My goal now is contribution. How can I impact somebody’s life every day?”
When he tells his life changing story, those in the audience leave with a message of selflessness.
Inspired Rod Brekken says, “Always think of the other people and try to be part of the solution.”
Sanderson says, “It’s about gratitude and giving back. People gave me so much that day.”
Staying afloat while helping others in tough times.
Dave Sanderson’s book “Moments Matter” about his miracle on the Hudson will be released late July.
