Paul Alexander, known as “the man in the iron lung,” died at age 78 having lived most of his life inside an iron lung to help him breathe after contracting polio at age 6.
Despite being paralyzed from the neck down and relying on the ventilator, Alexander graduated from law school and worked as a lawyer, authoring a memoir about his life.
“In this time Paul went to college, became a lawyer, and a published author,” said Christopher Ulmer, the creator of a GoFundMe page for Alexander.
“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 advocated for disability rights and lived independently.
“My story is an example of why your past or even your disability does not have to define your future,” Alexander said in an interview.
However, after being taken advantage of financially, Alexander struggled to afford healthcare and appropriate housing in his final years.
“This theft, combined with the high cost of health care, has left Paul with little money to survive,” Ulmer wrote.
“He struggles to maintain his iron lung, afford health care, and find housing that accommodates his needs,” Ulmer wrote.
A GoFundMe campaign raised over $143,000 to help Alexander live comfortably and pay for his funeral, allowing him to inspire many with his perseverance and positive attitude throughout his extraordinary life inside the iron lung.
“I am so [grateful] to everybody who donated to my brother’s fundraiser. It allowed him to live his last few years stress-free,” Paul’s brother wrote.
“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.”
Read Also:
Bombshell Decision from Michelle Obama on 2024 Run
Former Border Chief Shreds Biden With 4 Simple Words
