Paul Alexander, the longest surviving iron lung patient, passed away at the age of 78, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and determination.
Paul had spent an astonishing 70 years in an iron lung after contracting polio during the 1952 epidemic at the young age of 6, which left him paralyzed from the neck down. Despite his condition, he defied the odds and achieved remarkable accomplishments. He graduated college, earned a law degree, and practiced as an attorney for 30 years.
In 2023, Paul was officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the longest surviving iron lung patient. His brother Philip announced his passing and set up a GoFundMe page to cover housing and healthcare expenses.
Paul was not only known for his incredible strength and perseverance, but also for his advocacy work. He self-published his autobiography titled “Three Minutes for a Dog: My Life in an Iron Lung” and used his TikTok account, “Polio Paul,” to share his experiences and advocate for polio vaccination.
Many have described Paul as an inspirational figure who touched the lives of countless individuals. His death has left a significant impact on his followers and those who were inspired by his story. Paul’s legacy will continue to live on as a symbol of hope and resilience for generations to come.
