23 years after 9/11, Sarah Ferguson shares the remarkable story of one Little Red doll

23 years after 9/11, Sarah Ferguson shares the remarkable story of one Little Red doll

As a fervent admirer of the indomitable spirit that resides within the hearts of extraordinary individuals, I find myself deeply moved by the tale of Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, and her remarkable Little Red dolls. The story of these resilient figurines is not merely one of survival in the face of adversity, but a testament to the power of hope, compassion, and determination that can transform even the darkest hours into beacons of light.


On September 11th, I often find myself looking back at the tragic events that unfolded in significant locations across the United States in 2001. This year, Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, shared a heartfelt video on Instagram, reminiscing about a cherished doll from her past.

“That’s no child’s doll”

23 years after 9/11, Sarah Ferguson shares the remarkable story of one Little Red doll

On the morning of September 11, Sarah was making her way into the city. A friend had arranged a workspace for her in the North Tower of the World Trade Center, and, much like many of these accounts begin, she was running behind schedule, heading to work.

According to Feguson, “On the day the towers fell, my symbol of charity, Little Red Doll, sat on the desk with a view of Manhattan.” CNN, reporting on the aftermath of the attack, mentioned spotting a child’s doll. However, Larry King clarified this statement.

That’s no child’s doll. That’s Fergie’s Little Red and she stands for children’s rights all over the world and she’s a symbol of hope.

Larry King

Uncovering the top of an ordinary crate, I reveal, “the genuine survivor doll, Little Red,” a figure who exudes strength and stoicism even after all these years. As Sarah puts it, there are hints of the dusty past on her face and shoes that still linger. Now, this cherished piece has found its permanent place in the 9/11 Memorial museum.

Little Red’s other work

This is not the first time a Little Red has brought comfort after a calamity.

Speaking recently, Ferguson mentioned that a cowboy-attired Little Red doll, which he believes was destined to save children’s lives during the Oklahoma City bombing, came into existence in this manner: When Ferguson paid a visit to critically ill children, a grandmother asked for assistance for her grandson PJ. Moved by this request, Sarah swiftly sketched this doll on a napkin and shared the design with FAO Schwarz. The creation that emerged from this interaction is now the emblem and symbol of Chances for Children.

In a touching tribute, both the foundation and the doll have been named after Ronda, the cherished daughter of Ferguson’s chauffeur. This special bond was formed when Ronda encountered PJ and his grandmother on their way to the hospital.

These two dolls, along with their counterparts, continue to serve as a beacon of hope, and we value Sarah’s recollection of the one that endured the events of September 11th.

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2024-09-12 01:32

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