Blind Novato Man's 9/11 Survival Tale Continues to Inspire

The story of a blind Novato man whose guide dog led him to safety down the darkened stairs of the World Trade Center on Sept. 11 continues to inspire, as he's currently on a three-month speaking tour for the book he co-authored with a Castro Valley writer.

The book "Thunder Dog," by Michael Hingson and Suzy Flory, released just before the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks, tells the story of how the yellow lab Roselle helped Hingson to safety from the 78th floor of Tower One.

Sadly Roselle has passed away, but Hingson keeps her memory alive with a foundation to help blind children and his speaking engagements and book store signings across the country.

Roselle is among the service dogs and first responder dogs honored in the Animal Planet documentary, "Hero Dogs of 9/11," airing Tuesday at 8 p.m.

Flory said in an interview with Patch two years ago that Hingson's determination and positive attitude have left a lasting impression on her.

Flory was recovering from breast cancer when she first met Hingson and said he treats his blindness as an asset, not a liability.

"I am learning to look at my challenges in the same way, and I am finding that using what I have to serve others is the biggest adventure of all," she said. "I learned that by lowering my guard, choosing to trust others and working together, we could accomplish great things."

As it goes in the guide dog command, "Forward," Flory says.