Thunder Dog author to speak in Coloma August 29, 2012

Michael Hingson, blind since birth, and guide dog Roselle had just arrived at his job in the World Trade Center when American Airline Flight 11 crashed into their building in the terrorist attack. They survived the initial impact and, after descending 78 flights of stairs, were just 100 yards away from Tower Two when it collapsed. Hingson said his disability gave him and Roselle the ability to respond to the disaster to ensure their survival. After the explosion, Roselle remained calm, and because Hingson trusted her judgment, he did not panic.

Hingson said his blindness and the bond between dog and man saved lives and brought hope during one of America’s darkest days. He shares his message that the life-changing experience gave him to challenge people’s conventional thinking and encourages people to creatively respond to the adversity one faces by keeping an open mind.

Hingson and Roselle were thrust into the international limelight, sharing their unique survival story on hundreds of TV and radio interviews. After a 27-year career in high tech computer sales and management, Hingson joined the Guide Dogs for the Blind team in 2002 as the national public affairs director, sharing his 9/11 story throughout the world. In 2008, he left the team to form The Michael Hingson Groups, Inc. to travel the world speaking about the importance of teamwork and trust in our professional and personal lives, along with serving as a consultant for corporations and organizations that need assistance with inclusion, diversity, and adaptive technology training.

After just two weeks, Hingson’s book Thunder Dog  was at #29 on the New York Times Best Sellers List for non-fiction.

Michael will share his story at Midway Baptist Church 7517 Red Arrow Hwy. Watervliet on Wednesday August 29^th at 7:00 p.m. with book signings before and after.  Space is limited for this free presentation but you can reserve a spot by contacting Chana Kniebes at 757-2457.  Thank you to Coloma Community Schools, Coloma Lioness, Coloma Public Library and North Berrien Community Development for their financial support of this event.