Man Who Has Lived Inside Iron Lung For More Than 70 Years Relives Harrowing Moment Machine Stopped Working

Davy

• Published in Interesting
• February 4, 2024

Paul Alexander, a resilient survivor who has lived within the confines of an iron lung for over seven decades, recently shared a harrowing experience when his life-support machine ceased to function.

This incident highlights not only the precarious nature of his existence but also the incredible journey of a man who refused to let polio define his life. Through his story, we gain insight into the challenges faced by those living with post-polio syndrome and the remarkable achievements Paul has accomplished despite his condition.

Paul Alexander from Dallas, Texas, has become a symbol of extraordinary resilience and determination. Having contracted polio at the tender age of six, Paul was left paralyzed from the neck down, necessitating the use of an iron lung to assist his breathing.

This mechanical respirator has been his constant companion for most of his life, enabling him to survive against all odds.

The 78-year-old has recently taken to TikTok to share insights into his unique life, engaging with a curious audience through his series "Convos with Paul!" It was here that Paul recounted the terrifying moment his iron lung malfunctioned, a scenario that posed an immediate threat to his life.

The machine, powered by electricity, is essential for his breathing, and any failure could be fatal. Paul vividly described how, during a power outage, the cessation of the iron lung's operation meant he was moments away from suffocation.

In a testament to human courage and quick thinking, Paul shared how his attendant, Kathy, saved his life by manually breathing for him until the machine could be restarted.

This incident underscores the fragility of his existence and the constant vigilance required to maintain it.

Despite the challenges, Paul's life is a beacon of hope and achievement. He has not only survived but thrived, obtaining two law degrees, authoring a book about his life, and running a legal practice.

His story is a powerful reminder of the human spirit's capacity to overcome adversity and the importance of advocating for those vulnerable to diseases like polio.

Paul's journey is not just a personal triumph; it's a call to action to ensure that no child has to face the threat of polio again. Through his social media presence, he aims to raise awareness about the disease and the critical need for vaccination to prevent future epidemics. Paul Alexander's life, lived with grace and determination inside an iron lung, is a testament to the indomitable human spirit.

Davy