77-Year-Old 'Polio Paul' Lives in Iron Lung for Seven Decades, Refuses Modern Upgrade Despite Challenges

 Meet Paul Alexander, a man known as "Polio Paul," who has been living in a 600-pound iron lung for an incredible seven decades. This unusual machine helps him breathe because he got paralyzed due to polio when he was just 6 years old.

Back in 1952, there was a widespread polio outbreak in the United States, affecting nearly 58,000 people, mostly children. Polio is a disease that attacks the spinal cord, causing weakness in the muscles and, in severe cases, making it difficult to breathe. Thankfully, a life-saving vaccine was introduced in 1955 and widely given to children across the country. By 1979, the U.S. was declared polio-free, but unfortunately, it was too late for Paul Alexander.

After being diagnosed with polio, Paul underwent an emergency tracheotomy and was placed in an iron lung. The iron lung is a large machine invented in 1928 that helps people breathe by creating negative pressure to expand the lungs. Paul has been using this machine since then, even though it hasn't been manufactured since the late '60s.

Despite advances in technology and the invention of more modern machines, Paul prefers to stick with his "old iron horse." He declined newer devices, explaining that he got used to the iron lung, and he didn't want another hole in his throat, which newer machines would require.

Paul has learned a special technique called "frog breathing" that allows him to briefly breathe outside the iron lung. This technique uses throat muscles to push air past vocal cords, allowing him to swallow oxygen one mouthful at a time and breathe independently for short periods.

Remarkably, Paul hasn't let his condition stop him from pursuing his dreams. He finished high school, graduated from college, earned a law degree, practiced law for several decades, and even wrote a memoir – all while relying on his iron lung. In a 2021 interview, he shared, "I never gave up, and I’m [still] not going to."

As Paul has aged, he now requires round-the-clock care at a facility in Dallas. Despite facing numerous challenges since his birth in 1946, he continues to inspire others with his determination and resilience.

In March, Guinness World Records recognized Paul Alexander as the longest iron lung patient ever. However, he has also faced challenges, such as being taken advantage of by people who were supposed to care for his best interests. A fundraiser collected $132,000 for him, but it seems there were issues with how the funds were handled. Despite the challenges, he has pursued education, a career in law, and even written a memoir. His story is one of resilience and determination, showcasing the human spirit's ability to overcome significant obstacles.