The Incredible Story of “Polio Paul”

Paul Alexander, affectionately known as “Polio Paul” or “The Man in the Iron Lung,” passed away at 78 years old on Tuesday, March 12. But he left us with a story of incredible courage and an indomitable spirit that shone brightly even in the darkest of times.

Born on January 30, 1946, in Dallas, Texas, Paul’s life took an unexpected turn at the tender age of six. He was struck by poliomyelitis, a dreaded disease caused by the poliovirus, leading to almost complete paralysis from the neck down. Despite the grim prognosis, Paul didn’t let his condition define him. Instead, he embraced a life encased in an iron lung, a machine that breathed for him when his body couldn’t.

Paul’s Journey: More Than a Survivor

Living most of his life lying flat on his back, Paul’s resilience and thirst for life pushed him to achieve the unimaginable. He didn’t just survive; he thrived. Paul went to college, became a lawyer, and even authored a book. His story wasn’t just about survival; it was a beacon of hope and a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to overcome.

Christopher Ulmer, a friend of Paul’s, shared how grateful Paul’s family was for the support that allowed him to live his last years stress-free and cover his medical expenses. “It is absolutely incredible to read all the comments and know that so many people were inspired by Paul. I am just so grateful,” Philip, Paul’s brother, conveyed through Christopher.

A Legacy That Will Never Fade

Paul Alexander wasn’t just any man; he was a symbol of what it means to fight against all odds. His achievements, including becoming the first person to graduate from a Dallas high school without physically attending a class and forging a successful career as a lawyer, remind us that barriers are there to be broken.

Paul’s name will forever be etched in history, recognized by Guinness World Records for the longest time lived in an iron lung. But more than that, he showed us the power of determination and the importance of cherishing every moment we have.

Paul once said, “I knew if I was going to do anything with my life, it was going to have to be a mental thing. I wasn’t going to be a basketball player.” This mindset fueled him to make a difference, not just in his life, but in the lives of everyone he touched.

As we remember “Polio Paul,” let’s not just see him as the man in the iron lung, but as a shining example of human resilience and indomitable will. Paul Alexander, you will be dearly missed, but your story will continue to inspire generations to come.