Paul Alexander, known as “the man in the iron lung,” has left us at the age of 78. His life was a story of resilience, living most of it within the confines of an iron lung due to polio. On March 11, we said goodbye to this remarkable man from North Texas.
Philip Alexander saw his brother as more than just “polio Paul” or a patient in an iron lung. To him, Paul was a guiding light. “He wanted to change the world,” Philip shared. “He wanted to help people out. He wasn’t going to leave [this world] until, in his mind, he did something grand.”
Paul was just six when polio struck him, paralyzing him from the neck down. The disease left him unable to breathe without the help of an iron lung. Despite these hurdles, Paul and those around him never lost hope. His family and friends ensured he kept breathing, especially during power outages. Their support was a testament to their love and belief in Paul’s spirit.
Paul’s brother, Philip, remarked on how Paul lived life fully, despite his disability. “He was a person with or without the handicap. He liked everything else that we all have, he just had to do it a little differently with a little bit of help,” Philip said.
Achievements Against All Odds
Paul’s journey was one of constant adaptation. He mastered the art of writing, typing, and painting using just his mouth and a stick. His determination didn’t stop there. Paul went on to achieve academic and professional success, earning degrees in economics and law. He practiced law, advocated for polio research, and shared his story through a book.
In March 2024, Paul’s extraordinary life was recognized by the Guinness World Records as the longest-lived patient in an iron lung.
Philip credits their parents’ unwavering positivity and the support of family and close friends for Paul’s achievements. “If [he] didn’t have really strong positive parents, he would’ve never made it. If [he] didn’t have family and close relations all these years, he never would’ve made it,” he said.
A Voice of Hope
Paul also found a platform on social media, sharing his journey and inspiring others. “I love the sun, but I haven’t felt it in a long time. It’s lonely,” Paul once said in a TikTok video. Yet, his messages often carried hope, like his encouragement to “just hold on because it’ll get better.”
When Paul fell victim to exploitation by caregivers, a GoFundMe campaign was launched. It helped maintain his iron lung and covered his living and healthcare costs. “I am so [grateful] to everybody who donated to my brother’s fundraiser,” Philip expressed. “It allowed him to live his last few years stress-free.”
Final Days
Paul’s fight took a dangerous turn when he contracted COVID-19, a virus he knew could be deadly for him. After a brief hospitalization, he was released, but the virus ultimately claimed his life. “The night before he died he just opened his eyes and looked at me and said, ‘This is perfect,'” Philip recounted.
Paul’s journey reminds us of the power of resilience and the impact one life can have on many. “Even at the end, I don’t think he really realized what kind of effect he had,” Philip added, tears in his eyes. He hopes people remember Paul’s message: overcoming struggles is all about how we treat each other.
Paul Alexander’s funeral service was planned for March 20 in Dallas, a fitting farewell for a man who lived a life full of purpose and inspiration.
Paul Alexander’s life, the man in the iron lung, teaches us about the strength God gives us to face life’s challenges. It shows us that even in tough times, we can do great things with the abilities God has given us. Let’s remember to appreciate our blessings and use our talents to make a positive difference. Instead of focusing on what we lack, let’s be grateful and purposeful with what we have.
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13
WATCH: Inspiring Story of Paul Alexander “The Man in the Iron Lung”