An Inspirational Figure

Paul Alexander, widely known as "Polio Paul," passed away at the age of 78. He was paralyzed by polio as a child and spent over seven decades living inside an iron lung. Despite his condition, Alexander defied expectations by obtaining a law degree and starting his own legal practice. He was widely revered as an inspirational figure.

Writing a Memoir in an Iron Lung

Illustration: allthatsinteresting.com

In 2020, Alexander published his memoir titled "Three Minutes for a Dog: My Life in an Iron Lung." It took him five years to complete the manuscript, as he wrote it while confined to the cumbersome contraption. Using a pen attached to a stick held in his mouth, he wrote every word of the book.

The Longest Iron Lung Patient

In March of 2020, Guinness World Records declared Paul Alexander as the longest iron lung patient ever. His resilience and determination served as an inspiration to many, proving that anyone can overcome challenges and achieve their goals.

A Life Defined by Persistence

Alexander contracted polio in 1952 at the age of 6. He was rushed to the hospital and placed in an iron lung, where he would remain for the rest of his life. Despite doctors diminishing their expectations for his future, Alexander persisted. He studied, graduated from high school with honors, and eventually obtained a Juris Doctor from the University of Texas at Austin Law School. He went on to open his own legal practice.

A Legacy of Overcoming Adversity

Illustration: universo-virtual.com

Throughout his life, Alexander faced numerous setbacks and challenges. However, he always found a way to overcome them. He learned how to "frog breathe," which allowed him to leave the iron lung for minutes at a time. Despite being confined to the contraption once more towards the end of his life, Alexander's story serves as a reminder that one's past or disability does not have to define their future.