Paul Alexander, 76, has led a remarkable life, defying the odds and becoming one of the last individuals worldwide to live with an iron lung, a respirator dating back to 1928. Paul’s journey began at the age of six when he contracted polio, a highly contagious virus with severe symptoms, including paralysis.

After being diagnosed with polio in 1952, Paul’s condition rapidly deteriorated, leaving him unable to hold anything, swallow, or breathe. Pronounced dead by one doctor, another intervened with an emergency tracheotomy, saving his life. Subsequently, Paul spent 18 months in the iron lung, a revolutionary device that ventilates a person by creating negative pressure.

While inside the metal canister, Paul witnessed the devastating polio outbreak of 1952, affecting thousands, primarily children.

Determined to prove wrong those who doubted his survival, Paul overcame the challenges and was discharged in 1954. However, life outside the iron lung presented new hurdles, and with the help of a therapist, he gradually improved.

Despite facing discomfort and skepticism from others, Paul achieved remarkable milestones. He became the first person to graduate high school in Dallas without physically attending class, earned a college degree, and later attended law school.

After a successful 30-year career as a lawyer, Paul continued to stay active, even typing his own book using a pen attached to a stick.

Paul’s choice to remain in the iron lung, despite more advanced ventilator technology, reflects his preference for the familiar.

In the face of challenges, including a breakdown of the near-obsolete machine, Paul has persevered, utilizing spare parts from abandoned iron lungs found across the country.

Now, at 76, Paul is working on a second book, showcasing his resilience and determination. His inspiring story serves as a testament to the power of never giving up, overcoming adversity, and achieving one’s dreams. Despite the eradication of polio in the United States since 1979, Paul’s story remains a beacon of hope and inspiration.