Paul Alexander, now 76, is one of the last people in the world to use an iron lung. Paralyzed by polio at age six, he has spent decades relying on the 1928-era respirator to breathe. Despite his challenges, Paul’s life is nothing short of extraordinary.
Paul didn’t let polio define him. He became a lawyer, author, and advocate, proving that resilience can triumph over adversity. His story inspires countless others to overcome challenges and live fully, no matter the circumstances.
“I am not going to accept anyone’s limitations on my life. My life is incredible,” Paul says.
Before polio vaccines were available, the virus incapacitated more than 15,000 individuals annually. Even asymptomatic individuals could spread polio, which presented symptoms like fatigue, fever, stiffness, muscle pain, and vomiting. In rare cases, polio resulted in paralysis and death.
In 1952, Paul fell ill in Dallas, Texas. Within days, he lost the ability to breathe or move. A tracheotomy and an iron lung saved his life, but the journey was terrifying. Rows of children in iron lungs surrounded him as he struggled to adapt.
Doctors doubted his survival, but Paul’s determination proved them wrong. After 18 months in the hospital, he emerged ready to embrace life.
While some might have lost the will to live, Paul was only strengthened by the challenge.
Hearing doctors say, “He’s going to die today” or “He shouldn’t be alive,” only made him more determined to survive.
And survive he did!
