What happens when catastrophe strikes and your only guide is a devoted dog? On September 11, 2001, Michael Hingson, blind since birth, faced the unimaginable as the North Tower of the World Trade Center shook violently. Amidst smoke, fire, and falling debris, it was his guide dog, Roselle, who led him down 78 floors—an extraordinary tale of courage, trust, and survival.
Michael Hingson had lived his entire life without sight, yet nothing could have prepared him for the events of that morning. While at his office on the 78th floor of the North Tower, he was startled by a sudden boom as the building trembled beneath him.
“We moved about 20 feet,” Hingson later recalled.
Looking out the window, his colleague David Frank saw flames, thick smoke, and shards of glass raining down. “We’ve got to get out of here—now!” he shouted, panic evident in his voice.
Hingson could not see the danger, but he trusted his companion, Roselle—a calm, highly trained yellow Labrador who had been napping beneath his desk. The dog’s composed demeanor reassured him that it was still possible to evacuate safely.
Step by step, floor by floor, Hingson and Roselle descended. They navigated smoke-filled stairwells, dodged debris, and moved through panicked crowds. Roselle guided him past every obstacle with precision and focus, their years of training and deep bond proving stronger than fear or chaos.
Conclusion
The escape of Michael Hingson and Roselle from the North Tower is far more than a story of survival—it is a powerful example of the extraordinary relationship between humans and guide dogs. Roselle’s bravery and calm under pressure saved a life that day, highlighting how loyalty, trust, and training can overcome even the most terrifying circumstances. Hingson’s story continues to inspire, showing how determination and companionship can triumph when faced with unimaginable danger.