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Blind Survivor's 9/11 Escape with Guide Dog
7 Sep
Summary
- Blind man escaped World Trade Center during 9/11 attacks.
- His guide dog, Roselle, provided crucial assistance during the escape.
- He emphasizes controlling fear and focusing on controllable actions.
Michael Hingson, who has been blind since birth, recounted his experience escaping the World Trade Center's north tower on September 11, 2001. He and his colleague David Frank, accompanied by Hingson's guide dog Roselle, were on the 78th floor when the first plane struck.
As the building became engulfed in smoke and fire, Hingson, Roselle, and Frank began a perilous descent. Roselle guided them around obstacles and offered comfort amidst the chaos. Hingson repeatedly reassured his dog, sensing her need for calm, and even encouraged a panicked Frank.
Reaching the lobby, they were directed out by an FBI agent, only to be warned by a police officer that the building was collapsing. They narrowly escaped the south tower's disintegration, running for safety as the north tower also fell.
Following the tragedy, Hingson found healing by speaking about trust, teamwork, and managing fear. His memoir, 'Thunder Dog,' became a bestseller, and he continues to advocate for focusing on controllable aspects of life to avoid being overwhelmed by worry or fear.
