76-year-old man, paralyzed from polio at 6, is one of the last people with an iron lung: ‘My life is incredible’
Iron Lung Survivor’s Remarkable Journey
Paul Alexander, 76, has defied odds, spending most of his life in an iron lung, a relic from the 1920s. Despite being paralyzed by polio at six, he’s embraced life fiercely, stating, “My life is incredible.”
In 1952, Paul fell victim to polio’s devastating grip. He vividly recalls the terror of being unable to move or speak inside the iron lung, a machine that kept him breathing.
Surviving against grim odds, Paul’s determination never wavered. He recalls doctors’ grim predictions, but he defied them. “He’s going to die today,” they’d say, but Paul had other plans.
Released in 1954, life wasn’t easy. Yet, with resolve and support, he overcame challenges. Learning unconventional breathing techniques, he gradually spent less time in the iron lung.
His journey didn’t end there. Paul defied expectations, excelling academically and professionally. He became a lawyer, even typing his book with a stick. Despite technological advancements, he remains loyal to his iron lung, a testament to his resilience.
Paul’s story inspires, proving that with unwavering determination, anything is possible, even in the face of adversity.
