Remembering Paul Alexander: A Remarkable Journey of Resilience and Inspiration

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Paul Alexander’s passing. A true inspiration, Paul lived an extraordinary life, defying the odds for over 70 years while confined to an iron lung due to polio. He passed away at the age of 78 after battling Covid, which he contracted last month and struggled with despite being released from the hospital.

The announcement of Paul’s death came through a GoFundMe page initially set up to assist him financially. His brother, Philip Alexander, expressed immense gratitude for the support, mentioning how it relieved Paul of financial worries and will now help cover funeral expenses.

Christopher Ulmer, the organizer of the GoFundMe, highlighted Paul’s global impact, describing him as an incredible role model whose story resonated far and wide.

Paul’s journey was nothing short of remarkable. Despite his physical challenges, he pursued education, earning a law degree, and even established his own legal practice. His book, “Three Minutes for a Dog,” offered a glimpse into his life’s trials and triumphs.

In his final months, Paul embraced social media, particularly TikTok, where he shared his experiences under the moniker “Polio Paul.” With over 300,000 followers, he used the platform to educate and inspire others, shedding light on life inside an iron lung.

While the exact cause of his death remains unspecified, Paul’s legacy as the longest-surviving iron lung patient, as recognized by Guinness World Records, will endure. His impact on countless lives serves as a testament to his strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit.