Man Who Lived Inside Seven-Foot Iron Lung For Over 70 Years Has Died Aged 78

Back in 1952, when Alexander was just a six-year-old boy, he faced a frightening battle with polio and was quickly taken to a hospital in Texas for treatment.

At that time, the polio virus was a deadly threat, claiming the lives of thousands.

Miraculously, Alexander managed to pull through, thanks in large part to the support of an iron lung, a remarkable piece of medical technology.

For more than seven decades, he relied on this life-saving device but, unfortunately, passed away on Sunday, March 10.

Christopher Ulmer, who started a GoFundMe campaign to support Alexander's medical and living expenses, shared the sad news the following day.

On the fundraising page, Ulmer wrote: "Paul Alexander, 'The Man in the Iron Lung', passed away yesterday."

Paul Alexander has died at the age of 78. Credits: TikTok / @ironlungman

"After surviving polio as a child, he lived over 70 years inside of an iron lung. In this time Paul went to college, became a lawyer, and a published author."

"His story traveled wide and far, positively influencing people around the world. Paul was an incredible role model that will continue to be remembered."

He added more about their connection: "I met and interviewed Paul in 2022. Our community raised a large amount of money for him.

"I just got off the phone with Philip, Pauls' brother, who wants to communicate the following message."

'I am so gratitude to everybody who donated to my brother's fundraiser. It allowed him to live his last few years stress-free. It will also pay for his funeral during this difficult time. It is absolutely incredible to read all the comments and know that so many people were inspired by Paul. I am just so grateful.' 

Paul Alexander was just six years old when he contracted polio. Credis: Dallas Morning News/Youtube

"Paul, you will be missed but always remembered. Thanks for sharing your story with us."

Thanks to the generosity of people who contributed to the GoFundMe, Ulmer was able to raise an impressive $143,000 for Alexander.

This fund significantly aided him in covering his medical expenses and housing costs.

Before his passing, Alexander was acknowledged by the Guinness World Records for the longest time spent living in an iron lung.

As of 2020, it was reported by The Guardian that only one other person in the US relies on an iron lung.

Additionally, a resident of the UK, who also used an iron lung, passed away at the age of 75 in 2017.

Following the news of Alexander's passing, tributes began to pour in on social media, honoring his incredible life and resilience.

One person shared: "Sad news Paul Alexander was a remarkable man who had much to teach us about personal resilience."

"He & other Iron Lung users are a reminder of the potential life span for medical devices & need to design for longevity."

"His life & death an illustration of the importance of vaccines."

Another tribute on X read: "So sad to hear that Paul Alexander passed yesterday at age 78 from Covid-19. Paul contracted polio in 1952, when he was just six years old."

"He ended up in an iron lung and while he could live outside it for extended periods of time he never really left it."

For those who are dealing with the pain of losing someone and need someone to talk to, The Compassionate Friends offers confidential support and can be reached at (877) 969-0010.