Paralyzed from Polio at 6, One of the Last People with an Iron Lung – A Sad Update
Paul Alexander, known to many as “The Man in the Iron Lung,” lived a life that defied odds, inspired thousands, and reminded the world of both the fragility and resilience of the human spirit. Paralyzed by polio at just six years old in 1952, Paul became one of the last known people to live with the aid of an iron lung — a large, coffin-like mechanical respirator that helped him breathe when the virus destroyed his body’s ability to do so. Now, there is a heartbreaking update: Paul Alexander has passed away, marking the end of an era.
For over 70 years, Paul lived inside his iron lung, a relic of mid-20th century medicine that most hospitals retired decades ago. He became a symbol not only of survival but also of hope, intellect, and perseverance. Despite the limitations of his condition, Paul refused to let polio define him. Using a stick in his mouth, he learned to write, paint, and later even practice law. He passed the bar exam and advocated for disability rights, all from the confines of his iron lung.
Paul’s story captivated audiences online and in news stories, especially as many younger generations had never even heard of iron lungs. His YouTube videos, interviews, and online presence helped revive interest in the history of polio and its devastating impact — a disease that the world is still fighting to eradicate in some countries. To many, he was a living piece of history.
In recent years, Paul’s health began to decline. Maintaining the iron lung became increasingly difficult, as parts were no longer being manufactured and few people remained who knew how to service the machines. Volunteers, engineers, and friends helped him patch the machine together with whatever materials they could find. Still, Paul’s strength endured.
Sadly, on March 11, 2024, Paul Alexander died at the age of 78. His death was confirmed by his family and supporters. The announcement was met with an outpouring of grief and admiration from around the world. People described him as courageous, brilliant, and an example of never giving up no matter the circumstance.
In his final years, Paul frequently spoke about the importance of gratitude, education, and fighting for others. He believed that life was worth living — even a life confined to a machine — if one had purpose. His memoir, Three Minutes for a Dog, details his remarkable journey and serves as a lasting legacy for those who want to understand what it means to live with dignity despite profound challenges.
Paul Alexander’s death marks more than the loss of one man — it signifies the quiet end of a medical era. With polio nearly eradicated worldwide thanks to vaccines, the iron lung is now a symbol of a dark past slowly being put to rest. But Paul’s story ensures that those days — and the people who lived through them — won’t be forgotten.
