Authors, Jessica Kensky and Patrick Downes pictured with service dog, Rescue.

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Authors, Jessica Kensky and Patrick Downes pictured with service dog, Rescue.

Jessica Kensky and Patrick Downes were newlyweds and spectators at the annual Boston Marathon April 15, 2013. They were at the finish line, cheering on other runners, when the bombs went off. Downes lost his left leg, and Kensky eventually lost both legs.

The blast was followed by several surgeries, rounds of physical therapy and some dark days. That’s when the couple decided to add another member to their family. Rescue is their black labrador rescue dog. He is the subject of Downes and Kensky’s children’s book, “Rescue and Jessica: A Life-Changing Friendship.” Downes and Kensky are among the authors who will participate at the 2019 Savannah Book Festival. They talked to “On Second Thought” host Virginia Prescott about their traumatic experience and the inspiration for their children's book.

"On Second Thought" host Virginia Prescott speaks with Jessica Kensky and Patrick Downes.

Kensky, Downes and Rescue will all be at the Savannah Book Festival's children's tent Feb. 17. 

 

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