Martha Lillard, the last known U.S. polio patient to rely on an iron lung, passed away at 78, her sister confirmed. Diagnosed at age five, Lillard defied doctors’ predictions of a short lifespan, demonstrating remarkable resilience and a drive to live fully. Despite paralysis, she pursued education, drove, traveled, and even found love online, marrying Baha Salh after a decades-long virtual courtship. Her death, attributed to complications from long-haul COVID-19 and post-polio syndrome, marks the end of an era for iron lung users in the United States.
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I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Paul Alexander, the 78-year-old Dallas man who lived in an iron lung for most of his life. His story is nothing short of remarkable, filled with resilience, determination, and an unwavering spirit that defied the odds stacked against him. I can’t help but be in awe of his ability to persevere through such challenging circumstances, showing the world that limitations are merely obstacles waiting to be overcome.
Paul Alexander’s ability to adapt and thrive despite the confines of his iron lung is an inspiration to us all. Learning how to gulp in air through glossopharyngeal breathing, he found ways to leave the iron lung for parts of the day, eventually passing the bar to become a lawyer and opening a successful law practice.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker