Paul Alexander, the last man in the United States living in an iron lung, has passed away at 78. Known as “Polio Paul” on TikTok, where he shared his life with over 330,000 followers, Alexander contracted polio at age 6 in 1956. Despite spending over seven decades in the iron lung, he pursued law, earning his degree in 1986.
In February, news of his declining health emerged when he tested positive for COVID-19. Alexander’s life took a toll financially; unable to leave the iron lung for work, he faced theft and struggled to afford healthcare and suitable housing.
