In a heartbreaking update, Paul Alexander, fondly known as "the Man in the Iron Lung," has passed away at the age of 78. Despite being paralyzed from the neck down due to polio, Alexander became an inspiring figure, accomplishing remarkable feats such as graduating from law school, writing a memoir, and creating art using a brush held in his mouth.

The news of Alexander's passing was announced by Christopher Ulmer, who organized a fundraising page to support his medical and accommodation expenses. Ulmer shared that Alexander, who spent over 70 years inside the iron lung, left a lasting impact on people worldwide with his extraordinary story. He referred to Alexander as an incredible role model whose legacy will continue to inspire others.

Alexander's brother, Philip, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and revealed that the funds raised through the campaign would be used to cover funeral costs. He acknowledged the significant number of individuals who were inspired by his brother's journey, stating, "It is absolutely incredible to read all the comments and know that so many people were inspired by Paul."

Despite spending most of his life in the mechanical respirator, Alexander was not completely confined to it. He developed a unique breathing technique that allowed him to maneuver and fulfill various activities, such as representing clients in court, traveling on flights, and participating in disability rights protests. However, in recent years, he had become almost permanently reliant on the 300kg iron lung.

Iron lungs played a crucial role in saving the lives of numerous children during polio epidemics. The mechanical device, which used pressure to artificially pump air into the lungs, was originally intended for short-term use. With the advent of polio vaccines in the late 1950s, the need for iron lungs diminished, and other breathing devices that were directly inserted into the throat gained prominence. Despite this, Alexander chose not to undergo invasive surgery and continued to live in the iron lung, making him one of the last surviving individuals to do so.

Over time, Alexander gained prominence through media attention, highlighting the extraordinary duration he spent in the iron lung. Recently, he was officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the "longest iron lung patient."

In interviews with The Guardian, Alexander shared that he became an accidental activist, driven by a desire to represent a group of individuals like himself. He fought against societal barriers and fought for accessibility and inclusion, paving the way for others. Alexander's determination to challenge the limitations imposed upon him by others served as a testament to his resilience and strength.

The passing of Paul Alexander leaves a void in the polio survivor community and beyond. His incredible journey, unwavering spirit, and advocacy work will continue to inspire many for years to come.