This Man Spent 71 Years In An Iron Lung, Overcame Polio, And Became A Lawyer

Breathing Beyond the Iron Lung: How Paul Richard Alexander Overcame Polio and Became a Lawyer

Paul Richard Alexander, a man who has spent 71 years confined to an iron lung, defies the odds and emerges as a successful lawyer. His story is an example of how the human spirit can surpass challenges and accomplish greatness. This is the inspiring true story of Paul Richard Alexander.

Early Years and Polio Diagnosis

Alexander's journey began at the age of six, when he was a typical, active child playing outdoors with friends. However, a sudden onset of illness changed the course of his life. Stricken by polio, Alexander found himself in a hospital alongside other children grappling with the same debilitating disease.

"It wasn't that I was locked up; it was to keep me alive," Alexander recalls of the decision to place him in the iron lung. Polio, a disease that primarily affects children, had paralyzed his entire body, leaving him unable to breathe independently.

Triumph Over Adversity

Undeterred, Alexander embarked on a relentless journey to regain his ability to breathe. With the support of his caretaker, he gradually learned to breathe for short intervals without the assistance of the iron lung. Weeks of persistent efforts culminated in a pivotal moment when he could breathe for three minutes on his own—an achievement that marked the turning point in his battle against polio.

With newfound determination, Alexander ventured beyond the confines of the iron lung, navigating the world from a wheelchair. Despite facing numerous challenges, including attending two universities, earning degrees, and even practicing law, Alexander's indomitable spirit propelled him forward.

The Iron Lung: A Lifeline

The iron lung, a relic of medical history, serves as a lifeline for Alexander. This mechanical marvel replicates the function of his paralyzed muscles, allowing him to continue his daily activities and maintain a level of independence. The negative pressure machine aids in the inhalation and exhalation process, enabling Alexander to breathe without hindrance.
In a world that has moved past such archaic medical interventions, Alexander’s reliance on the iron lung is a proof of the uniqueness of his situation. His choice is practical, allowing him to keep his mouth free for essential activities, including writing and communicating.

Advocacy for Vaccination

Alexander's story also reinforces the importance of vaccination. Having contracted polio before the vaccine's development, he emphasizes the critical role vaccines play in preventing life-altering diseases. He urges the public to prioritize vaccinations, highlighting that diseases like polio persist in certain regions due to factors such as vaccine unavailability or hesitancy.

A Call to Overcome

Paul Richard Alexander's journey is one of triumph over adversity, a narrative that inspires and challenges societal perceptions. Locked in a metal box for most of his life, Alexander's achievements defy the limitations imposed by his health. His message is clear: the only obstacle preventing individuals from achieving greatness is their mindset.

As Alexander aptly puts it, "If I can accomplish great things within the confines of an iron lung, imagine the possibilities if you open your mind."

He also chose to tell his story through his 2020, self-published memoir: Three Minutes for a Dog.

In a world often consumed by challenges, Paul Richard Alexander stands as a living embodiment of the power of resilience and determination, proving that even within the most restrictive circumstances, one can overcome and achieve greatness.