Inside the Harrowing Escape of 9/11 Survivor Michael Hingson and His Guide Dog, Roselle

In 2002, Roselle received an award from the American Kennel Club. It was in honor of “canine excellence” among service dogs. Two years later, a veterinarian diagnosed Roselle with immune-mediated thrombocytopenia, a disease that affects blood platelets. Hingson believes the toxic air conditions that she faced helping him escape on 9/11 caused her condition.

But the brave Roselle lived seven more years in the care of her loving family. Sadly, on June 26, 2011, Roselle passed away peacefully. Michael Hingson was right there by her side — just as she was always there for him.

Although Hingson has owned many guide dogs throughout his life, he will always have a special bond with the late Roselle. It was Hingson’s job to know where to go and how to get there, and it was Roselle’s job to get him there safely. On 9/11, he never let go of her harness. And she never wavered.