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Who was Paul Alexander AKA 'Polio Paul'? Man who spent 70 years in iron lung passes away at 78
Paul Alexander, also known as 'Polio Paul,' died at the age of 78 after spending 70 years inside an iron lung. His life was characterized by resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
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Paul Alexander, also known as 'Polio Paul,' passed away at 78 after spending 70 years in iron lung
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Paralyzed from neck down due to polio at six during one of the largest outbreaks in US history
Trigger Warning: This article contains references to an individual’s death.
Paul Alexander, affectionately known as 'Polio Paul,' who spent 70 years in an iron lung, passed away at the age of 78 as per METRO. He captured the hearts of many with his extraordinary journey of resilience and determination. Despite facing enormous challenges from a young age, he was unwavering in his determination to live life to the fullest.
Early life and Polio diagnosis
Born in 1946, Paul Alexander's life changed drastically at the age of six when he was diagnosed with polio, during the largest outbreak of the disease in US history. The epidemic, which affected nearly 58,000 people, mostly children, left Paul paralyzed from the neck down.
His world was forever changed when he found himself confined to an iron lung, a daunting 600-pound metallic structure, just to breathe.
Life in the iron lung
For Paul Alexander, the iron lung became more than just a medical device; it was his home for over seven decades. He was struggling with the effects of polio and relied on this mechanical marvel to keep him alive. 
Despite the availability of modern ventilators since the 1960s, Paul chose to continue using the iron lung, finding comfort and familiarity in its presence. The iron lung used a technique called "frog breathing," which allowed Paul to swallow oxygen one mouthful at a time, a process critical to his survival.
Achievements and legacy
Paul's journey was truly remarkable. Despite the physical limitations caused by his condition, he refused to let them define him. With unwavering determination, he pursued education, graduating from high school and later earning a law degree.
His resilience and spirit were evident as he represented clients in court, dressed in a three-piece suit and sitting in a wheelchair, all while practicing 'frog breathing.'
Paul's legacy extends well beyond his legal career. He entered the world of literature, becoming a published author and inspiring countless people with his story of triumph over adversity.
Christopher Ulmer, who organized a GoFundMe campaign for Paul, emphasized his impact, stating that Paul's story spread far and wide, touching the lives of people all over the world.
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