The man in the iron lung-Paul Alexander
By: Surjit Singh Flora
(SAMAJ WEEKLY)- Since medical technology has made ventilators more efficient and portable, iron lung machines are uncommon nowadays. Some people who used iron lungs during polio may continue to use them for different reasons, such as comfort and familiarity, availability and cost, and personal preference.
Although modern ventilators have made significant advancements in terms of flexibility and control over breathing support, the choice to stick with an iron lung ultimately comes down to personal preferences and a range of influencing factors. It’s crucial for individuals in this situation to collaborate closely with their healthcare provider to ensure they receive optimal care for their respiratory needs.
Paul Alexander, who spent more than seven decades living in an iron lung, encountered a multitude of obstacles in his life as a result of his medical condition.
Paul Alexander contracted polio in 1952, when he was just 6 years old. The disease left him paralyzed from the neck down, so he could not breathe on his own. At that time, a doctor made a hole in Paul’s chest and shifted him to this machine, Through this machine, Paul’s lungs received oxygen, Paul was just a guest for few days, the doctor said, since how long can a person lie in this machine? Paul did not give up on his illness. He completed his studies while lying in this machine, and then, with a law degree, Paul also fulfilled his dream of becoming a lawyer. After becoming a lawyer, Paul fought the cases of many people lying in the same machine. Paul used to type on the computer keyboard with a stick between his teeth; he also wrote many books in this way.
78-year-old Paul Alexander, a resident of Texas, USA, who spent most of his life with iron lungs, passed away this year on March 11, 2024, due to Covid-19.
These days, there seems to be a concerning increase in the number of individuals who are feeling overwhelmed by their problems and resorting to drastic measures. Choosing to end one’s life is a tragic decision that not only brings an end to one’s own existence but also fails to address the underlying issues. It leaves behind a trail of heartbreak for family and friends.
Paul Alexander’s inspirational tale shows that there are answers to every problem, although some take longer to solve. Many individuals have been on that precarious edge, and it’s not fun. However, it is surmountable.
Don’t allow your current circumstances to dictate your future. Because the future is unwritten, and there is nothing worth ending your life over.
In order to make progress, it can be beneficial to seek support and explore the underlying reasons behind your emotions. Consider participating in group therapy sessions with individuals who have experienced similar situations. There is always hope, no matter how long the journey may be. It’s important to have faith in yourself and seek the support you need to overcome any challenges. Engage in various interests or hobbies to divert your attention, dedicate time each day to acquiring new knowledge, and strive for personal growth.
Regardless of the difficulties he faced, Alexander showed incredible strength, determination, and flexibility throughout his life. He passionately championed the cause of people with disabilities, using his own experiences to shed light on the significance of accessibility, inclusion, and medical research in enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities. His story is truly inspiring and emphasizes the significance of support, advocacy, and advancements in medical technology for people with disabilities.
Those who think that there are many difficulties and hardships in our lives and who are afraid of their life in difficult times must read about the life of Paul Alexander, who spent 72 years of his life lying in this machine.
(Surjit Singh Flora is a veteran journalist and freelance writer based in Brampton Canada)
