The True Story of a Blind Man, His Guide Dog, and the Triumph of Trust at Ground Zero

A Fateful Day

On the morning of September 11, 2001, Michael Hingson, a blind computer programmer, and his faithful guide dog Roselle boarded the North Tower of the World Trade Center.

Thunder Dog: The True Story of a Blind Man, His Guide Dog, and the Triumph of Trust at Ground Zero

by Michael Hingson

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	588 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	258 pages

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Hingson, who had lost his sight at the age of 20, relied heavily on Roselle's keen senses to navigate the bustling corridors of the towering skyscraper. Unknown to them, their lives were about to be forever changed.

The Terror Unfolds

At 8:46 AM, American Airlines Flight 11 crashed into the North Tower, sending shockwaves through the building.

Chaos ensued as the impact shattered windows, disabled elevators, and filled the air with smoke and debris. Amidst the pandemonium, Hingson and Roselle found themselves trapped on the 78th floor.

An Unbreakable Bond

As darkness and despair closed in, Hingson knew he could count on Roselle. The loyal Labrador Retriever stood by his side, offering comfort and unwavering support.

Together, they embarked on a perilous descent, guided by Roselle's intuitive senses and Hingson's unyielding determination. Step by step, they navigated treacherous stairwells and smoke-filled corridors.

A Beacon of Hope

As they made their way down, Hingson and Roselle became a symbol of hope for others trapped in the burning tower. Their indomitable spirit and the extraordinary bond they shared inspired countless people watching their escape unfold on live television.

Finally, after more than an hour of harrowing ordeal, Hingson and Roselle emerged from the wreckage, their faces covered in soot but their spirits unbroken.

Aftermath and Legacy

In the aftermath of the attacks, Hingson and Roselle's story became a testament to the transformative power of trust, courage, and resilience.

Hingson went on to become a renowned advocate for blind and disabled people, sharing his experiences and inspiring others to overcome adversity. Roselle continued to serve as his faithful guide until her retirement in 2007.

A Literary Tribute

The extraordinary bond between Hingson and Roselle has been immortalized in the book "Thunder Dog: The True Story of a Blind Man, His Guide Dog, and the Triumph of Trust at Ground Zero."

Written by Hingson himself, the book provides a firsthand account of their harrowing experience and the unbreakable bond that sustained them through the unimaginable.

The story of Michael Hingson and Roselle is a timeless tale of hope, resilience, and the triumph of the human spirit.

It is a testament to the extraordinary bond that can exist between humans and animals, and the transformative power of trust, even in the darkest of times.