Iron Lung Survivor and Advocate Paul Alexander Passes Away at 78

Paul Alexander, who defied overwhelming odds by living with polio in an iron lung for 70 years and achieving a fulfilling life, died on Monday, March 12th, at the age of 78.

His remarkable story captured hearts around the world. Alexander contracted polio in 1952 at the height of the U.S. epidemic. The disease left him paralyzed and unable to breathe independently, necessitating the use of an iron lung.

Overcoming Challenges, Achieving Goals

Despite his limitations, Alexander displayed extraordinary resilience. He mastered techniques allowing him to leave the iron lung for brief periods. This enabled him to pursue his education, graduating from college and law school. He became a successful courtroom attorney for three decades.

Sharing his Story and Advocating for Prevention

Alexander documented his experiences in his autobiography, "Three Minutes for a Dog: My Life in an Iron Lung." He actively engaged with the public through his recent TikTok account, "Polio Paul," raising awareness about the disease and the importance of vaccination.

A Legacy of Inspiration

Paul Alexander's life serves as a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity. He leaves behind a legacy of inspiration, demonstrating the power of perseverance and the crucial role of widespread vaccination in preventing debilitating diseases like polio.

Cause of death: While not officially confirmed, Philip Alexander, Paul's brother, mentioned hospitalization due to a recent COVID-19 infection.