‘Polio Paul’ Alexander, who spent 72 years inside an iron lung, is no more
Legendary person had survived polio and lived in an iron lung since 1952
‘Polio Paul’ Alexander, who spent 72 years inside an iron lung, died aged 78.
Paul Alexander, widely known as “Polio Paul,” passed away Monday in Texas, according to the organizer of his official GoFundMe account, Christopher Ulmer.
“Paul, you will be missed but always remembered,” Ulmer wrote, adding, “Thanks for sharing your story with us.”
However, the cause of death has not been officially disclosed.
Alexander, who was paralyzed by polio as a child, was hospitalized late last month after testing positive for Covid, according to his social media manager.
As reported, he was later able to return home but was having trouble eating and drinking.
The legendary person had survived polio and lived in an iron lung since 1952.
Paul Alexander who contracted polio when he was 6 years old, was widely revered as an inspirational figure, obtaining a law degree and starting his legal practice, defying doctor’s expectations.
Last year, Guinness World Records declared him the longest iron lung patient ever.
“No matter where you’re from or what your past is, or the challenges you could be facing, you truly can do anything,” Alexander exclaimed in a 2021 video interview with YouTuber Mitch Summers. “You’ve just got to set your mind to it and work hard!”
Tributes continue pour in for Alexander on social media:
Guinness World Records are saddened to learn of the passing of Paul Alexander, the man who spent the longest time inside an iron lung.
— Guinness World Records (@GWR) March 13, 2024
Paul spent over 70 years of his life confined to the iron lung after being paralyzed by Polio at six years old.https://t.co/fT3hltrmha
So sad to hear that Paul Alexander passed yesterday at age 78 from Covid-19. Paul contracted polio in 1952, when he was just six years old. He ended up in an iron lung and while he could live outside it for extended periods of time he never really left it. pic.twitter.com/nTPtALzfJu
— Kai Kupferschmidt (@kakape) March 12, 2024
Paul Alexander, man who lived inside an iron lung for more than 70 years has now died at age 78.
— DramaAlert (@DramaAlert) March 13, 2024
Despite being trapped in the iron long, Paul was able to be a successful lawyer.
He contracted polio at the age of six.
RIP. 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/CYJojwnbD8
If you think life is hard, think again. Video by Paul Alexander who is one of the last people living in an iron lung. He contracted polio when he was just 6 years old back in 1952. He’s been using his iron long for over 70 years now. He also just celebrated his 78th birthday… pic.twitter.com/WmKKJ9rlMj
— ⛔Mr Labo®️ (@BangiesAbdull) March 13, 2024
