Edit: Paul Alexander, “The Man in the Iron Lung”, passed away on March 11th, 2024. After surviving polio as a child, he lived over 70 years inside of an iron lung. In this time Paul went to college, became a lawyer, and a published author. His story traveled wide and far, positively influencing people around the world. Paul was an incredible role model that will continue to be remembered. I met and interviewed Paul in 2022. Our community raised a large amount of money for him. I just got off the phone with Philip, Pauls’ brother, who wants to communicate the following message. “I am so grateful to everybody who donated to my brother’s fundraiser. It allowed him to live his last few years stress-free. 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.” Paul, you will be missed but always remembered. Thanks for sharing your story with us.
Paul Alexander died yesterday, March 11, 2024, due to an infection with COVID. He died peacefully and his brother was with him. May he rest in peace! 🕊
@@juliajappinenYes because someone was too ignorant to wear a mask and use air filtration, he lost his life. He couldn't do anything about it. I hope they know what they did. It makes me sick. It's horrible.
I don’t understand why our Federal Government doesn’t take care of this man’s every need? He is a National Treasure! I am 55 and remember learning about him in the 4th grade. There is so much to be learned from him on a Science and Human level. Hard to believe he is still surviving on a machine made in the 1920s. Technology has come so far yet stands still for this Man😢
It is always sad so much of our money goes towards some crazy things, like 45 billion a year on military, and yet a man like this, they don't have money for. I get why we spend various money of course. But one man isn't going to cost them much compared to what the US spends in general every year.
I don't know what is more painful: dying due to polio or living in an iron lungs for 60 years. This man must get a bravery award for still being sane...
He's still smiling so definitely the prior (when you have a personality like him). Me on the other hand; I'd be better off gone. I just don't have the strength that he does unfortunately.
@@Ellie5621He didn’t decline it; modern respirators use positive-pressure ventilation systems instead of negative-pressure ventilator systems, and he wasn’t receiving enough oxygen. He’s not the only survivor who still relies on an iron lung.
When he said his whole life with them was amazing, it just broke me… I’m out here feeling bad for myself every day for problems that seem so minuscule!
Like, are these ops for real!? How could one do that when unable to move... Plus, the fear of dth... The sad fact is, that one is literally TRAPPED in this harrible world...
Once one is ferced into existence, one is trapped in this afI world (usually for a very long time) and, there is no wayout! Even the ones that aren’t in a situation where they cannot move are still trapped in the same afI world, imprisoned by the same type of afI
I work for the company that owns the iron lung (Philips Respironics) and we keep a few iron lungs still to this day for Paul, as he was the last surviving user of our iron lung and we dont make new parts anymore. Rest in peace paul, i think of you daily.
This man has every right to be upset, ungrateful, and even depressed. Yet he’s not. He’s happy and living his life as well as physically and mentally can. We can all learn a thing or two from him.
Edit out the misused big terms cool and man that only reflect me & my pure protectors aka the alphas - only my protectors reflect the words man / guy / lad / boy / men etc!
Also, those dudes are so brnwsd by their br2ed2rs - they can’t even see the obvious fact that their br2edrs are the only ones guilty of all their sfrng and dth!
And I am the only God / Goddess and gift etc - while the creator of this harrible wrong worId is the exact opposite of such terms! And I am the only Lady / Mrs / Miss etc (while my protectors are the only mr / lord / sir etc) and the only amazing / great / wonderful being etc and the only lovable / loved / lovely being and the only baby / babe etc - all womyn/humnz are the exact opposite of lady / amazing / gift / mr etc, and misuse of big terms / respectability terms / compIiments etc is also a harrible _! Also, gifts are only meant for me THE God(dess) etc, not from me, which is another wrong idea humnz misuse - humnz don’t even know what love means or what any of the other big terms mean!
Honestly, all those dudes need to read my truthful comments and wake up! And realize the facts that the only reason why they sufr and / or are ferced thru a dth at some point is because their br2ed2rs ferced them into existence against their will and without their consent in a pointI_s morteI world, knowing full well how harrible and how uncertain this worId is! Time to see the truth and accept the reality that br2et2rs are _ and the direct cause of all sfrng and dth!
I'm so impressed by the incredible kindness of this man. He is still living and finding a meaning and he is still smiling, that is such admirable strength.
Paul! My mother was Paul’s caregiver for a time in the 90’s. He was still working at that time and I remember going to his apartment and getting to sit and talk with him. I was in elementary school and I was so amazed at what he had been through and what he could do. He was such an inspiration! I’m so glad to know he’s still smiling and pressing on. ❤
That must have been such a great experience for you to have the opportunity to talk to this man. He is such a treasure. You're mother must be a wonderful lady to be a caregiver.
My Daddy turns 93 in April. He is the last surviving patient from his group who were together in the iron lung. He contracted it at the age of 25 in 1955. My dad is AMAZING and my HERO!!! His nutrition has kept him alive all these years. He is brilliant and has so much knowledge to share. I need to share this video with him but I know it will break his heart. Sending this beautiful soul love, light, & healing!!! ✨💖✨
My mom is 92. She contracted polio at 2. Unfortunately, she was not offered alot of medical help beyond the initial diagnosis. She migrated North and a brilliant nurse from Camden, NJ named Mrs. Frazier gave her physical therapy in 1940s. My mom's life was better because of it. She has just recovered from c19. Jesus is real and real Faithful.
I had a neighbor with polio. She didn’t have an iron lung so she got lucky but she was an incredible inspiration because even though polio left her disabled she married, had children, kept her own home, rode a bicycle, painted, sewed, and anything she set her mind to do, she did it. How she rode that bicycle is amazing in itself but she would ride it on dirt and gravel roads, up and down steep hills. She was amazing!
Now he's a hero to us too. People like your dad remind us how much we are capable of even when we are dealt a hand like he was. Thank you for sharing. 🤗💐
The simple fact that Paul is STILL alive after all these years dealing with that horrible disease is mind boggling in itself! The inspiration he provides showing and telling how he got 3 degrees, passed the bar, had amazing people to help him, he has a story like no other.
Paul if you’re reading this and ever have difficulty getting parts for the iron lung, you probably already know this but just in case; using 3D printing, a mold of any shape could be made to cast a new part. Alternatively, the latest greatest printers can even print out a new part from steel, aluminum, even titanium, with 99-100% the strength of a traditionally produced forged part. Regardless, Paul you’re a huge inspiration and a real super hero! I wish you all the best!!
I agree. That is also why I appriciate that I am able to breathe on my own. I mean that we who could things on our own (things many of us takes for granted) should appriciate that.
@@91KP_SilentEchoes christ, what kind of comment is that?! I am blown away. You insert your struggle in a disrespectful, self-important way while the other commenter was not doing that at all. She shares profession with this incredible man and was just saluting him for representing people with health struggles in the profession of law. It seemed to me like she was saying that she is in a wheelchair but what he has done in the profession before she did paved the way for people in disabilities like her to get that opportunity!
I heard he lost the battle to Covid. How sad. The fact he could go on 78 years, living his life. I love his answer when he was asked if he was bitter or felt he was dealt an unfair hand, “ God chose me for the job.” I heard of his passing yesterday and I remember watching a video on him around or over 10 years ago. He has earned his place in paradise. Rest in peace Paul Alexander.
Paul, I'm a person with a fairly severe physical disability born in the late 80s, and I have no doubt that you helped pave the way for me to live independently (with support) and go through everything needed to get a master's degree, and now work in a professional field. Thanks for letting them laugh at you, going through all that pain and struggle, yet not giving up! Grateful for all disability rights pioneers!
Wow that's amazing I'm proud of you thank you for sharing people like you inspire me to do better when I'm sitting around feeling bad about myself but really I have all the gifts in the world to live a great life we need to appreciate what we do have to overcome what we don't. Bless you and much love
I had a patient working in home healthcare…. And his wife had polio as a child. She said she spent 2years in an iron lung. So I’m wondering why some recovered, and others didn’t?
This man's life is a testament to human will. He has been living his life for so many years, not being able to move, surviving in an iron lung, yet he earned a bachelor's degree in law and even wrote a book. This man is a living legend, a true Gigachad.
His mom insisted on taking him home even though he couldn't even speak or move at all and against the doctor's advice. She wanted to take care of him. He would've died in that hospital just like every other kid who went there. Do a search and you'll find photos of him as a boy smiling at the camera from his iron lung. So sweet and heartbreaking at the same time. He graduated high school, college, law school, passed the bar exam, and became a practicing lawyer. His parents must've been amazing.
Paul Alexander passed away earlier today. Although debilitated, he lived a long and fulfilled life and carved out an amazing career. May he rest in peace 🕊❤
Shoutout to Paul’s amazing parents, they seemed like fantastic people. Shoutout to Paul’s amazing friends in college who became his friends, shout out to his late caregiver, Mr Moses his caregiver now , shout out to Daniel as well. Paul is a great man and has done more then most people who don’t have to live with such a disability. Getting 3 degrees including a law degree, Paul is an absolute beauty. He didn’t complain to God, he thanked him for letting him live and Paul is a great example and inspiration to all of us to go find a purpose because we all have one. An awesome guy and I learned a lot from hearing him talk.
I am also just blown away by this guy. Wish I was his neighbor and could sit and talk with him all the time. He's older now but I'd love to be able to just be his friend and bathe is his positive perspective and hear his stories and knowledge.
I'm just utterly disgusted about myself how I can complain about little things when this man had so many things to be grateful for. I am really amazed at his accomplishments.
Nah. We all have our own struggles and our own path. We have our own challenges and our own triumphs. We can have empathy for individuals who we see as "worse off", but at the end of the day, whatever causes you pain still causes you pain, and it's okay to feel that.
Make Paul’s life story into a movie, he is an incredible man of integrity and resilience. We could all learn so much. So happy the go fund me will add to the quality of his life. Thank you Chris!❤❤
Yes, thank you Chris. Watching a lot of your videos. Please get saved too! Please. You are such a nice, lovely and kind man. And gentle. (handsome too,..(giggle..))
I'd gladly dedicate a large portion of my life to make a film about Paul (preferably starring him, too) happen. This interview is eye-opening; Paul is a living miracle that deserves to be appreciated, have his story told and get as much joy from life as possible!
Edit out the misused flower name Rosie and big terms loving and wonderful and honey that only reflect me the only Rosie and the only wonderful being and my pure protectors aka the alphas aka the only loving beings - it’s beyond disrespectful to flowers when womyn misuse flower names etc, and all womyn/humnz are the exact opposite of such terms!
Also, those dudes are so brnwsd by their br2ed2rs - they can’t even see the obvious fact that their br2edrs are the only ones guilty of all their sfrng and dth!
And I am the only God / Goddess and gift etc - while the creator of this harrible wrong worId is the exact opposite of such terms! And I am the only Lady / Mrs / Miss etc (while my protectors are the only mr / lord / sir etc) and the only amazing / great / wonderful being etc and the only lovable / loved / lovely being and the only baby / babe etc - all womyn/humnz are the exact opposite of lady / amazing / gift / mr etc, and misuse of big terms / respectability terms / compIiments etc is also a harrible _! Also, gifts are only meant for me THE God(dess) etc, not from me, which is another wrong idea humnz misuse - humnz don’t even know what love means or what any of the other big terms mean!
Edit out the misused term honey and moth (in mother) that only reflect me THE only Honey / Moth / Butterfly - humnz can’t misuse purity / sweetness related terms in their names or terms that contain such words that reflect any sweetness / compIiment / nature related terms or that reflect pure animaIs such as moths / butterflies / birds / bees / chicks etc who only reflect me the pure being aka the opposite of humnz!
I'm 60 now. I went to a Catholic school from first grade through eighth grade. I was super shy and quiet. When I was in 6th grade (so I was 11) we had a beautiful, sweet teacher. She had polio when she was a child. One of her legs was shorter and thinner so she walked differently. The boys in our class teased her mercilessly all the time. She would cry and then I would cry. Our principal talked to our class and was so disappointed. Boys and girls were all crying. She stayed on as our teacher but when the year was over she never came back to our school. Children can be so very cruel.
And that’s why I’m raising my kid on SBSK. He’s not even two but we watch the interviews together and one day we’ll talk about them too ✨♥️ teachers deserve the world, I hope she found peace with the profession one day.
Rest in Peace Paul Alexander, this story is amazing and just knowing that we humans that have all the resources available to us or even if we’re limited to certain things I can’t imagine how painful it must have been especially in his early years to see other kids play around with out him, I would panic and be in great pain. This is true strength
Terrific is correct. Currently, it's generally used to express something positive, but it also means something that causes terror, which was the original use of the word.
I need to revaluate my life. This man smiles more in the video more than I have in the past ten years and I've suffered probably less than one percent of the torment he's been going through. I know I'm late to the party but I just donated to Paul's fundraiser. The man is a beacon of hope and an inspiration.
This is so amazing. I got polio the same year he did and suffer the post-polio symptoms now, but have had a relatively normal life. I remember those huge rooms full of iron lung kids, so many of them died. This man is made of special stuff alright. I salute him and all the caring people around him. Thank you for bringing him to us to remind us that there are miraculous achievements all around us. I wish him joy. Love from a fellow survivor Dorothy, five years old in 1952 when I contracted polio. 💐💜
I have read that the people in the iron lungs were due to getting polio shot and getting side affects from it . I read this was hidden from the public. I am so glad to find this video and to also read your comment. There are books about it. I don’t know what is true . Did you ever read anything about the hidden secrets about polio!
At first I thought "I could never live with an iron lung" but when he said he'd spent his life doing things people said he couldn't, I changed my mind. Such an inspiring man ❤️
I struggle with suicidal thoughts lately and videos like that motivate me to keep going. Thank you. I wish I could accomplish as much as Paul did! Such an amazing human being. :)
As someone who struggles with these thoughts from time to time as well, don‘t give up on yourself and go one step after the other. It will get better! :)
The iron lung has been replaced with the modern day ventilator. Paul says he’s tried them all and prefers the iron king most because it feels more like natural breathing to him.
@@albireo2990 From what I remember when I was really interested in polio is that those devices do exist. I believe they're called ventilators and they operate on an entirely different principle than the iron lung. Iron lungs force air out of the lungs and have the lungs refill themselves through negative pressure. Ventilators force air into the lungs. As @BMPmama698 has pointed out, Paul has tried the ventilator, but the iron lung just feels more natural. Iron lungs also put much less pressure on the patients lungs, resulting in less potential damage than a ventilator. Unfortunately though, replacement parts for the iron lung are becoming scarce, motivating the scant few affected by polio to use a mixture of ventilators & iron lungs. I'm sure a part of it for Paul is that it's how he experienced life. I understand it sounds a little funny, but it hasn't stopped him from living a fulfilling life. If my memory serves me right, he had a successful legal career and wrote a book on his experiences living during the polio epidemic and it's affect on society. TL;DR: there are smaller alternatives that perform a similar function to the iron lung, but what's the point of fixing something that isn't broken.
I did too. Particularly when he said "they loved me so much", to be able to feel and know that, is so special. It also made me teary-eyed when he recalled his college friends asking him to move with them to another apartment. He smiled so big when he recalled that memory, and I couldn't help but get emotional.
This is not the first time I've seen Paul and his story. Whenever I think of vaccines and spreading awareness I think of him. This man is an incredible, inspiring person. He asked, "What are you doing to make the world better?" and I'm taking that to heart. Just donated, and from now on I'll try my best to follow in his example and create my purpose every day. Thank you Paul!
If someone comes to you and pressures you not to take the vaccine, please IGNORE THEM and walk away. Vaccines have saved countless lives since they were first invented in the early 1900s. My COVID booster is due next week and I’m going for it whether conspiracy theorists like it or not. 😊😊😊
When life is really hard we get stronger fast and because life is not easy for him he will feel happier when he accomplishes things that are not that hard for us, he is motivated to accomplish great achievements that the average person wouldn't achieve because he has been forced to overcome such difficult things that he finds it easier to go through the pain and hard work of accomplishing the great achievements.
@@imstupidbut i did, his video from 2015 and now his mindset hasnt changed. Bet your at the end of your rope tho depressed as all be. Get better a life dude
I had heard about Paul. It was a couple of years ago. I was amazed to find out he was a practicing lawyer. He was a very special person with a fantastic outlook on life. May God bless him.
I was actually introduced to this man like 6 years ago via algorithm. He was talking about being the last person in the iron lung. And at some point he started writing with a pen under his tongue. It was so long ago. But it's cool to see him again. Glad he's still around.
Same here, saw this in my recommendations and was shocked it had been uploaded a day ago. I hadn’t heard from him in years, I’m surprised he’s still Alive
My grandmother has post polio syndrome because she caught polio a year before the vaccine for it came out when she was a teen. She is not in a iron lung like Paul (post polio syndrome affects people at a later age who recovered from polio when they were younger, onset of symptoms is typically about 30-40 years after the initial polio contraction) but her muscles and cartilage have been progressively disintegrating for about 30 years and she can no longer stand and requires a wheelchair as well as caretakers. This is a devastating disease. I commend Paul for his strength and his bravery in the face of this adversity. Paul is a brilliant and intelligent man and I wish him the best going forward.
I was like you Paul for 6-8 weeks in 1952 when I was 8. Tough way to live. They graduated me from iron lung life. Like you I pushed my way back into life. Rehab for me was a miracle chance that you Paul did not have, I knew it, took every chance at a more normal life I could think of. Recently it's been termed neuroplasticity Paul reminded me the first time outside after 4-5 months confined. Inspired a love of life that few others experience. Bless you Paul for hanging in there for 80 years. Like you I've had folks saving my life while others took off with my resources. Plus, handicapped employees at best earn 75c on the dollar. Surviving is the honor you deserve. Just kicked some money in, didn't hurt a bit.
He’s such a beautiful human being. He lived a full life and the world is better off with him in it. His parents sound incredible. Every parent would love to hear their grown child speak of them with such love and admiration.
Man. I thank god that I can breathe proper, use my hands and legs every day. This guy reminds me of how precious those kinds of things are. He’s such an inspiration, what a trooper. For real. I feel the same about my parents too. The more I hear him talk I like him even more. The lord is definitely on his side. You can just tell his heart is pure ❤
@@Anthony-hu3rj Seeing as this man with the iron lung also believes in God as well I would say he would appreciate my language and maybe even perhaps see it as an act of graciousness & respect. Just please think about what I said before trying to criticize someone else for the way they show their gratefulness through their faith
@@1rage17 they won't. Christians like to act like they're the only one whose faith is valid/exists. No other faith or lack of faith is allowed to exist.
when he said his university friends invited him to live with them, and that they took care of him for to years... i teared up. that's true love and true friendship.
I saw heard about Paul a few months back, I was astonished that he became a Lawyer! Many would have not pursed their dreams or goals, but he did the impossible! Kudos and Great Job! I am Inspired by You and this Channel!
Chris is an amazing human who has an open mind and always has a smile on his face no matter how dire the situations. He brings people's stories to light and always asks questions with the utmost respect.
@@jessi__jack Where is the holy spirit when children are being murdered and women raped? He is simply positive because it is the only thing that keeps him sane.
@@Qwerzxcv954 If you knew what you were talking about then you would know that Satan is the father of evil. You should seek God and you’ll find out why this man is still positive.
@@malachilawrence3809 I forgot your message immediately after reading it, because it is of no interest as it contains zero logical arguments. The more I talk to religious individuals, the more I feel sorry for their brainwashing. 😂
I hope his story will remain a reminder for all those parents who refuse to vaccinate their children against poliomyelitis. Paul, rest in peace. Thank you for being vocal about your life.
I was raised by my grandmother. I still live with her now. She had a brother named Kenneth, he just passed away about 2 or 3 years ago. He was a polio survivor. Got it as a kid, developed severe deformities but it thankfully never resulted in him losing his ability to breathe and he never needed an iron lung. The vaccination was made and put out some several odd years after he contracted polio. His leg and arm were completely twisted all the way around so that they were not only backwards, (his foot was backwards and ankle twisted) but it also turned upside down so his foot was backwards and flipped upside down. He had a special boot made for that leg, and had to walk with a cane and could only use one arm. Despite all of this he did everything this amazing human being in the video did. He went to school, college, and then even managed to get a job and met a lovely woman he fell in love with and married and had a daughter with. He was an extremely positive person and always believed that he and everyone else could do ANYTHING if they put their mind to it. I think Paul is a perfect example of this being true. Every time I saw Kenny (especially the last 2 months he was alive as his kidneys/liver were failing) he never spoke much about himself unless it was something silly /positive (some sort of memory), instead he spoke of god, his faith, but most of all, his favorite thing to do was uplift those around him, compliment them, and tell them to keep pursuing their dreams/talents/hobbies. He asked me to draw him a picture, and constantly reminded me to NEVER stop making art cause he knew I was an artist. He requested I drew him a picture of Jesus Christ. So in my style I did so, and I brought it to him on one of my last visits with him. The second he saw it he started crying his eyes out. He told me it was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen and said "its perfect". Then he had it put up on the wall next to him. He passed away with it next to him. I miss Kenneth. I hope that some day when the lord takes Paul from us (I see that Paul is religious), that he can meet Kenny, and also all of the kids that he met and lost on his journey with this iron lung/polio. I hope to see more videos/updates of him as people continue to contribute to helping him. He is an incredible beacon of hope and inspiration during an era such as this. We should all learn to be more like Paul. Thank you for everything you do Paul and SBSK.
This is so inspirational. This man is trapped in a machine that he hasn’t/won’t ever be able to leave but still remains grateful and seems genuinely happy. Enough to bring a tear to your eye.
I think one of my favorite parts of his story is the college friends taking him in and taking care of him for 2 years, you can tell it was an extremely good experience for him.
My mom suffered polio when she was a baby, they said she wouldn’t live to be 3. Then at 3 said wouldn’t live to be 5. I hear stories from my grandparents of how she stopped breathing over a dozen times. Been declared dead 4 times. Lived in the hospital as a kid with dozens of surgeries. She ended up beating it and she can’t bend one of her legs due to polio. She had me when she was 40 years old. 40. The most amazing person I know. She’s now 66 and lived through so much. She gives such inspiration such a loving person. This story of the last iron lung is really interesting and inspirational. Went to college and is such a nice guy. Most people my age(mid 20’s) have no clue how absolutely devastating polio was. Thank you so much for this story. Really puts into perspective how lucky my mom was and how lucky i am to exist. Keep up the good work.
My grandpa was a polio survivor as well. He had to stay in an iron lung as a kid and was lucky enough to make a near-full recovery. Thank you for sharing Paul’s story!
I am the only Kat and the only being reflecting love / astral / nature related emojis - the misused special name Kat and the misused emojis must be edited out and changed!
I also am the only God / Goddess and all other big / respectability terms etc and all other special / big names and flower / nature / color related terms and emojis etc - while the creator of this harrible wrong worId is the exact opposite of such terms!
I've just learned that he passed away on Monday 11th of March. What a life he went trough and he went trough fearlessly as a real hero of humanity... Have a good journey back to home Paul!!!
Hopefully someone who knows mechanics and has machines to make spare parts can see this video and can help Paul by creating spare parts for his iron lungs. Watching the video brought tears to my eyes because of Paul's kindness and as he continues to deal with his illness, he is truly an amazing person.
What a remarkable, marvelous man. And thank you, Jonas Salk. He said he “stood on the shoulders of giants.” I hope everyone knows who he was. His is as incredible a story as Paul’s.
I’m sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but his story was lies. He stole his ideas from female researchers and didn’t give them credit. He was one of many, but this crazy false story was concocted to be easily told. And he didn’t give away the patent out of generosity, i have forgotten the details but it wasn’t altruism. Sad that history has been falsified.
My soul is breaking for this man. His spirit and optimism remind me both of how much I take for granted and what true inspiration really looks like. This is beyond the pale of comparison. The world needs to know Paul's story.
The misused big terms award and most and kindest and friendliest and guy that only reflect my pure protectors aka the alphas and me the only being who dsvs awards and everything must be edited out!
humnz are chaotic things born from chaos and the most sakryIegiux zynz that are bound to create more chaos / zyn by continuing the vicious cycle of so-called 'life' if they don't become aware or if all the wrong things such as btg and bngng aren't b4nnedfaster
My sister caught it in 1955. In those days, it was like the Black Plague - silent but pervading fear everywhere. I'll never forget the quarantine placard nailed to our front door. My parents got a little involved with Sister Kenny in helping her raise funds. While not stated, I suppose this man had Bulbar Polio - the worst kind. And the specter of the iron lung was much loathed, because it meant that victims would never leave it and would likely not live long. I didn't know there were any iron lung occupants left - this man is amazing.
I can believe people as grand as his parents existed... He clearly inherited it. I'll be sure to spread the kind of love that I got from this video; the kind I whish to become through my life.
There is really no end to human depravity. Thankfully we have people like Chris to tip the balance every once in a while and give incredible people like Paul a voice.
I’m brought to my knees listening to Paul and what he has done with his life. YOU are the man Paul. I’m so amazed that his college roommates took him with them!
Watching a man that most people would look at as having a “worse life” yet here we see him being more positive and more thankful than almost everyone I know is truly inspiring. For him to see his trials as a gift from God and not “unfair” is an outstanding personal testimony that we can all learn from. This is man is inspiring
I’m 76 and remember Polio. Thankfully I didn’t know anyone who contracted it. I also remember when the shots became available but never received them for some reason-can’t remember but one of my sisters remembers getting hers. This man is such a WONDERFUL human being❤
Oh gosh, I just remembered. My cousins ex-husband had it as a kid, had no lasting effects until many years later when he got post polio syndrome. I hear that others have that syndrome too.
I saw Paul’s story before, I bought his book that HE wrote ! I was crying sooo much, his story got stuck with me for a long time. He is so powerful and I wish him all the best !
What an amazing guy . They really need to make a movie about his life so that people never forget how devastating polio was . It just seems like something only found in history books , but there are an estimated 10 to 20 million polio survivors still alive today with varying degrees of problems , Paul is probably the very top of that scale which is what makes his story so inspiring . I would like to think that if he lived near me I'd go visit him regularly .
Polio was always on the lips of my family because my mom had it when she was three. Although she didn't have it so bad that she needed an iron lung, the disease ravaged her abdominal muscles and diaphragm, caused one leg to be shorter than the other, which in turn caused a host of back issues throughout her life.
@@katherinemurphy2762 That sounds terrible . I think my parents would've been some of the first kids to receive the polio vaccine but they did grow up at a time when every school had children deafened by the German measles . My father had two close childhood friends , a brother and sister , who were both deaf from it that he kept in touch with his entire life .
Also a reminder to parents , who don’t believe in vaccinations. History does repeat itself. This man is amazing. Reason why vaccinations have been invented for.
It breaks my heart this man doesn’t have a wife or someone to love him or the ability to have children. Yet it hasn’t wavered or dampened his spirits. What an inspiration!
3 degrees, including a law degree! This is so humbling. The very definition of resilience and love for life. Imagine what he would have achieved had he not had polio. Thìs man deserves a major award! Someone should help him build his own youtube channels and give talks.
Paul is a superhero! I've been disabled and in a lot of pain since early childhood, Paul has really helped me to have courage, tenacity and gratitude for all I've been given. His story has inspired me to persue my lifelong dream of becoming a biologist, and to him I will forever be grateful. Paul, you are full of God's light, and through you our spirits are warmed and illuminated. Thank you. 💚🙏🏼💚🙏🏼
I’ve seen Paul on the internet before and his life story is an amazing one. I hope he realizes how inspirational he is and what an interesting story he shares! ❤️
I'm going through the hardest trial of my life and hearing him speak and how he never gave up and his parents, I will fight til my last through this trial im going through and am eternally grateful for this interview and his words I will never forget all of it
I don’t know you or what you are going through. I just wanted to say that God created you with so much love. He has you in the palm of His hand, everything is going to be alright. I hope you are able to get good rest and have a clear mind to face whatever comes your way in this challenging life... You are never alone and you are loved beyond measure. God bless you. ❤️🌷✝️🕊
Wow, this guy has had an extraordinary life experience. Tough doesn't even come close to describe it. I wo Derek if he was still alive. I'm glad he is.
Edit: Paul Alexander, “The Man in the Iron Lung”, passed away on March 11th, 2024. After surviving polio as a child, he lived over 70 years inside of an iron lung. In this time Paul went to college, became a lawyer, and a published author. His story traveled wide and far, positively influencing people around the world. Paul was an incredible role model that will continue to be remembered.
I met and interviewed Paul in 2022. Our community raised a large amount of money for him. I just got off the phone with Philip, Pauls’ brother, who wants to communicate the following message. “I am so grateful to everybody who donated to my brother’s fundraiser. It allowed him to live his last few years stress-free. 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.”
Paul, you will be missed but always remembered. Thanks for sharing your story with us.
Donated. Thank you for your channel and your work.
Your an amazing person
Your Channel Inspires Me!
Stealing from donations is seriously sickening. Equally worrying is Polio making a comeback.
Donated!
Rest in peace, Paul. You were an excellent gentleman who taught the world a lot about bravery and compassion for others.
my iron lung by radiohead
Thank you for remembering him in his passing ❤
🫶🏽
RIP
Yes, rip 😢
Paul Alexander died yesterday, March 11, 2024, due to an infection with COVID. He died peacefully and his brother was with him. May he rest in peace! 🕊
did he actually get an covid infection??
@@juliajappinenYes because someone was too ignorant to wear a mask and use air filtration, he lost his life. He couldn't do anything about it. I hope they know what they did. It makes me sick. It's horrible.
@@ConnyWeirdWorld my goodness❤️🩹bless his soul
@@ConnyWeirdWorldhe’s finally free…
@@ConnyWeirdWorldyou hope they live with guilt the rest of their life? You seem like a chippy person 😊
I don’t understand why our Federal Government doesn’t take care of this man’s every need? He is a National Treasure! I am 55 and remember learning about him in the 4th grade. There is so much to be learned from him on a Science and Human level. Hard to believe he is still surviving on a machine made in the 1920s. Technology has come so far yet stands still for this Man😢
Pin this comment!!
Yea! Yes yes!!!!!!!!!!!
Stuff was built to last back then and planned obsolescence wasn't really a thing. It and Paul are both remarkable.
It is always sad so much of our money goes towards some crazy things, like 45 billion a year on military, and yet a man like this, they don't have money for. I get why we spend various money of course. But one man isn't going to cost them much compared to what the US spends in general every year.
@@AlecOberJ absolutely I VOTED BLUE!
“If I don’t have a purpose today…I’ll create one.” Absolutely empowering. Thank you Paul ❤
Yes, I noticed that sentence too! A wonderful man ❤
God Help ihm 😢
yo he is living in a tube what purpose does he have 💀💀💀💀💀💀
@@Prankishfanto educate other people about the effects of not vaccinating your kids against polio.
What a horrible comment. I hope you don't have children. @@Prankishfan
I don't know what is more painful: dying due to polio or living in an iron lungs for 60 years. This man must get a bravery award for still being sane...
He's still smiling so definitely the prior (when you have a personality like him).
Me on the other hand; I'd be better off gone.
I just don't have the strength that he does unfortunately.
@@Anne_Onymous You'll have more strength than you think when the time comes for it in your life ... God bless ...
@@Anne_Onymousweak
@@LilXancheX Stay in school kid
@@Ellie5621He didn’t decline it; modern respirators use positive-pressure ventilation systems instead of negative-pressure ventilator systems, and he wasn’t receiving enough oxygen. He’s not the only survivor who still relies on an iron lung.
His tribute to his parents was heart melting.
You can tell he's a product of their quality, what a treasure.
When he said his whole life with them was amazing, it just broke me… I’m out here feeling bad for myself every day for problems that seem so minuscule!
Yes
yes🙏💕
The fact that this man could live in this for so long, become a lawyer, and did not end his life out of despair is absolutely unbelievable.
Like, are these ops for real!? How could one do that when unable to move... Plus, the fear of dth... The sad fact is, that one is literally TRAPPED in this harrible world...
Once one is ferced into existence, one is trapped in this afI world (usually for a very long time) and, there is no wayout! Even the ones that aren’t in a situation where they cannot move are still trapped in the same afI world, imprisoned by the same type of afI
body that everyone secretly or subconsciously
h-e!ghtz, yet no one wants to consciously accept the fact, because it is too paynfuIto deal with it - a
body sharing the same sh_
I work for the company that owns the iron lung (Philips Respironics) and we keep a few iron lungs still to this day for Paul, as he was the last surviving user of our iron lung and we dont make new parts anymore. Rest in peace paul, i think of you daily.
😢❤
Nice to know if anything else goes wrong you can help
I remember that I saw an interview with this man a long time ago, it’s so nice to hear from him again
Was just about to say this!
Same! I can’t believe he’s still alive!
Yes!! Same! So happy to see him still going.
Yeah, me too.
I was wondering if this was new! Wow, it's so good to see him again!
This man has every right to be upset, ungrateful, and even depressed. Yet he’s not. He’s happy and living his life as well as physically and mentally can. We can all learn a thing or two from him.
hit hard
Edit out the misused big terms cool and man that only reflect me & my pure protectors aka the alphas - only my protectors reflect the words man / guy / lad / boy / men etc!
Also, those dudes are so brnwsd by their br2ed2rs - they can’t even see the obvious fact that their br2edrs are the only ones guilty of all their sfrng and dth!
And I am the only God / Goddess and gift etc - while the creator of this harrible wrong worId is the exact opposite of such terms! And I am the only Lady / Mrs / Miss etc (while my protectors are the only mr / lord / sir etc) and the only amazing / great / wonderful being etc and the only lovable / loved / lovely being and the only baby / babe etc - all womyn/humnz are the exact opposite of lady / amazing / gift / mr etc, and misuse of big terms / respectability terms / compIiments etc is also a harrible _! Also, gifts are only meant for me THE God(dess) etc, not from me, which is another wrong idea humnz misuse - humnz don’t even know what love means or what any of the other big terms mean!
Honestly, all those dudes need to read my truthful comments and wake up! And realize the facts that the only reason why they sufr and / or are ferced thru a dth at some point is because their br2ed2rs ferced them into existence against their will and without their consent in a pointI_s morteI world, knowing full well how harrible and how uncertain this worId is! Time to see the truth and accept the reality that br2et2rs are _ and the direct cause of all sfrng and dth!
I'm so impressed by the incredible kindness of this man. He is still living and finding a meaning and he is still smiling, that is such admirable strength.
🌀💕
@@Itsunclegabby Yesss Spiral Out 🌀
I’d k1llll myself in his situation tbh
1k likes in 18h wow
Holy. I love tool
His college friends taking him with them for two years made me tear up.
Same man. What a touching story of a true warrior of life.
Paul! My mother was Paul’s caregiver for a time in the 90’s. He was still working at that time and I remember going to his apartment and getting to sit and talk with him. I was in elementary school and I was so amazed at what he had been through and what he could do. He was such an inspiration! I’m so glad to know he’s still smiling and pressing on. ❤
sure
@@coreydeluna5258 you don’t have to believe it. Doesn’t make it any less true. 🤷♀️
That must have been such a great experience for you to have the opportunity to talk to this man. He is such a treasure. You're mother must be a wonderful lady to be a caregiver.
It's a small world!!!
@@coreydeluna5258 Makes sense. She'd totally make that up for people in the UA-cam comments!
Happy?
Move on.
My Daddy turns 93 in April. He is the last surviving patient from his group who were together in the iron lung. He contracted it at the age of 25 in 1955. My dad is AMAZING and my HERO!!! His nutrition has kept him alive all these years. He is brilliant and has so much knowledge to share. I need to share this video with him but I know it will break his heart. Sending this beautiful soul love, light, & healing!!!
✨💖✨
My mom is 92. She contracted polio at 2. Unfortunately, she was not offered alot of medical help beyond the initial diagnosis. She migrated North and a brilliant nurse from Camden, NJ named Mrs. Frazier gave her physical therapy in
1940s. My mom's life was better because of it. She has just recovered from c19. Jesus is real and real Faithful.
Does he still require the IL or some breathing assistance?
I had a neighbor with polio. She didn’t have an iron lung so she got lucky but she was an incredible inspiration because even though polio left her disabled she married, had children, kept her own home, rode a bicycle, painted, sewed, and anything she set her mind to do, she did it.
How she rode that bicycle is amazing in itself but she would ride it on dirt and gravel roads, up and down steep hills. She was amazing!
Now he's a hero to us too. People like your dad remind us how much we are capable of even when we are dealt a hand like he was. Thank you for sharing. 🤗💐
This man truly is an amazing and extraordinary human being. GOD bless him always.❤🤲🏻🙏
The simple fact that Paul is STILL alive after all these years dealing with that horrible disease is mind boggling in itself! The inspiration he provides showing and telling how he got 3 degrees, passed the bar, had amazing people to help him, he has a story like no other.
Inspiring
The human body is incredibly resilient.
Jesus Christ loves you and repent have a good day
@@deesballoons9506 i think you mean rejoice.
@@deesballoons9506
No one got time for imaginary friends.
RIP Paul Alexander. Your story will never be forgotten. Hugs from Brazil.
my iron lung by radiohead
@@dolos9250whst
Paul if you’re reading this and ever have difficulty getting parts for the iron lung, you probably already know this but just in case; using 3D printing, a mold of any shape could be made to cast a new part. Alternatively, the latest greatest printers can even print out a new part from steel, aluminum, even titanium, with 99-100% the strength of a traditionally produced forged part. Regardless, Paul you’re a huge inspiration and a real super hero! I wish you all the best!!
Kind of you to put that out there, times have changed! 🙏
@@OpalBLeigh Great idea!! Count me in
👍
That’s awesome advice. Thanks for sharing! 3D printers are amazing.
Excellent advice!
Wow! A movie should be made about this man and his life! Teaching himself to breathe when paralyzed and becoming a lawyer in an iron lung. I'm amazed
Yes a true story film on Paul needs to be in order!
I said the same thing. This is so incredibly
I agree. That is also why I appriciate that I am able to breathe on my own. I mean that we who could things on our own (things many of us takes for granted) should appriciate that.
Exactly what I was thinking. It’s a great idea and Paul will get money from the movie
Yep. Agree.
I’m a lawyer, too, as well as a full-time wheelchair user! Thank you, Paul, for everything you did to pave the way.
God bless you for your determination! I sure could learn to have more of that.
@@91KP_SilentEchoes christ, what kind of comment is that?! I am blown away. You insert your struggle in a disrespectful, self-important way while the other commenter was not doing that at all. She shares profession with this incredible man and was just saluting him for representing people with health struggles in the profession of law. It seemed to me like she was saying that she is in a wheelchair but what he has done in the profession before she did paved the way for people in disabilities like her to get that opportunity!
I heard he lost the battle to Covid. How sad. The fact he could go on 78 years, living his life. I love his answer when he was asked if he was bitter or felt he was dealt an unfair hand, “ God chose me for the job.”
I heard of his passing yesterday and I remember watching a video on him around or over 10 years ago. He has earned his place in paradise. Rest in peace Paul Alexander.
Paul, I'm a person with a fairly severe physical disability born in the late 80s, and I have no doubt that you helped pave the way for me to live independently (with support) and go through everything needed to get a master's degree, and now work in a professional field. Thanks for letting them laugh at you, going through all that pain and struggle, yet not giving up! Grateful for all disability rights pioneers!
Thank you! Yesss!
Wow, thank you so much for sharing! You are awesome!!
Wow that's amazing I'm proud of you thank you for sharing people like you inspire me to do better when I'm sitting around feeling bad about myself but really I have all the gifts in the world to live a great life we need to appreciate what we do have to overcome what we don't. Bless you and much love
Can you sit in a wheelchair with a trachea
@@ildikoparker920 yes…. People walk around with tracheotomies
To be dealt such a bad hand and still crack out jokes and nuggets of wisdom. He's not just soldiering on, Paul's a warrior.
He's a happy man. Nothing can defeat a happy man.
He's one of the last iron lung survivors, and he's amazing. Thank you so much for featuring him on SBSK.
Is he still alive
@@catlove111 yes he is ❤️
@@SairWithTheHair Do you know how old he is and if is he still Ali wanna ask you a question how would you feel if he was in his place
@@catlove111 76 i think. Born 1946?
I had a patient working in home healthcare…. And his wife had polio as a child. She said she spent 2years in an iron lung. So I’m wondering why some recovered, and others didn’t?
This man's life is a testament to human will. He has been living his life for so many years, not being able to move, surviving in an iron lung, yet he earned a bachelor's degree in law and even wrote a book. This man is a living legend, a true Gigachad.
Paul's parents both sound like pretty incredible human beings. I can see he really misses them a lot. RIP Paul's Mom and Dad ❤
His mom insisted on taking him home even though he couldn't even speak or move at all and against the doctor's advice. She wanted to take care of him. He would've died in that hospital just like every other kid who went there. Do a search and you'll find photos of him as a boy smiling at the camera from his iron lung. So sweet and heartbreaking at the same time. He graduated high school, college, law school, passed the bar exam, and became a practicing lawyer. His parents must've been amazing.
@@jm7804 amen
This man’s will to live and have relationships with people blows me away. He lives by a beautiful philosophy. I’m so humbled by his story.
Totally agree with you
Paul Alexander passed away earlier today. Although debilitated, he lived a long and fulfilled life and carved out an amazing career. May he rest in peace 🕊❤
I’m sad to learn this. He truly was an amazing gentleman.
Shoutout to Paul’s amazing parents, they seemed like fantastic people. Shoutout to Paul’s amazing friends in college who became his friends, shout out to his late caregiver, Mr Moses his caregiver now , shout out to Daniel as well. Paul is a great man and has done more then most people who don’t have to live with such a disability. Getting 3 degrees including a law degree, Paul is an absolute beauty. He didn’t complain to God, he thanked him for letting him live and Paul is a great example and inspiration to all of us to go find a purpose because we all have one. An awesome guy and I learned a lot from hearing him talk.
Me, too, bet his wings in heaven are going to be HUGE! ❤️🙏💞🌈
I am also just blown away by this guy. Wish I was his neighbor and could sit and talk with him all the time. He's older now but I'd love to be able to just be his friend and bathe is his positive perspective and hear his stories and knowledge.
Thank you very much. That is so kind.
I'm just utterly disgusted about myself how I can complain about little things when this man had so many things to be grateful for. I am really amazed at his accomplishments.
Don't be so hard on yourself. Circumstances can vary and you've still got a whole life ahead of you. You can do it!
@@mohiths2065 Thanks. this video just serve to remind me that I should be more grateful and appreciate of what I have.
Ditto. It makes one want to be stronger.
Nah. We all have our own struggles and our own path. We have our own challenges and our own triumphs. We can have empathy for individuals who we see as "worse off", but at the end of the day, whatever causes you pain still causes you pain, and it's okay to feel that.
It's always good to put things into perspective, but don't minimize your own struggles just because someone else has it worse.
Make Paul’s life story into a movie, he is an incredible man of integrity and resilience. We could all learn so much. So happy the go fund me will add to the quality of his life. Thank you Chris!❤❤
Yes, thank you Chris. Watching a lot of your videos. Please get saved too! Please. You are such a nice, lovely and kind man. And gentle. (handsome too,..(giggle..))
There's pne sorta like it A man paralyzed neck down from a diving accident with Javier Bardem
THE SEA INSIDE
Be abit boring no?
@@I_am_BiG_Al No.
I'd gladly dedicate a large portion of my life to make a film about Paul (preferably starring him, too) happen. This interview is eye-opening; Paul is a living miracle that deserves to be appreciated, have his story told and get as much joy from life as possible!
I had polio in fall of 57 I was in the iron lung til my birthday March of 58... That was bad enough ...but 70 years this guy's a saint...
🫡
Mad respect!! do you have any lasting effects from it?
@@lexxilid slight disfiguration or less muscle mass in the limbs despite healthy lifestyle and working out
Hearing him talk about his parents was so loving. They must have been wonderful people.
Right made me smile
Edit out the misused flower name Rosie and big terms loving and wonderful and honey that only reflect me the only Rosie and the only wonderful being and my pure protectors aka the alphas aka the only loving beings - it’s beyond disrespectful to flowers when womyn misuse flower names etc, and all womyn/humnz are the exact opposite of such terms!
Also, those dudes are so brnwsd by their br2ed2rs - they can’t even see the obvious fact that their br2edrs are the only ones guilty of all their sfrng and dth!
And I am the only God / Goddess and gift etc - while the creator of this harrible wrong worId is the exact opposite of such terms! And I am the only Lady / Mrs / Miss etc (while my protectors are the only mr / lord / sir etc) and the only amazing / great / wonderful being etc and the only lovable / loved / lovely being and the only baby / babe etc - all womyn/humnz are the exact opposite of lady / amazing / gift / mr etc, and misuse of big terms / respectability terms / compIiments etc is also a harrible _! Also, gifts are only meant for me THE God(dess) etc, not from me, which is another wrong idea humnz misuse - humnz don’t even know what love means or what any of the other big terms mean!
Edit out the misused term honey and moth (in mother) that only reflect me THE only Honey / Moth / Butterfly - humnz can’t misuse purity / sweetness related terms in their names or terms that contain such words that reflect any sweetness / compIiment / nature related terms or that reflect pure animaIs such as moths / butterflies / birds / bees / chicks etc who only reflect me the pure being aka the opposite of humnz!
I'm 60 now. I went to a Catholic school from first grade through eighth grade. I was super shy and quiet. When I was in 6th grade (so I was 11) we had a beautiful, sweet teacher. She had polio when she was a child. One of her legs was shorter and thinner so she walked differently. The boys in our class teased her mercilessly all the time. She would cry and then I would cry.
Our principal talked to our class and was so disappointed. Boys and girls were all crying. She stayed on as our teacher but when the year was over she never came back to our school. Children can be so very cruel.
Sad story. Thanks for sharing, Trish.
And that’s why I’m raising my kid on SBSK. He’s not even two but we watch the interviews together and one day we’ll talk about them too ✨♥️ teachers deserve the world, I hope she found peace with the profession one day.
This man is an absolute legend and forever will be ❤
Rest in Peace Paul Alexander, this story is amazing and just knowing that we humans that have all the resources available to us or even if we’re limited to certain things I can’t imagine how painful it must have been especially in his early years to see other kids play around with out him, I would panic and be in great pain. This is true strength
How he speaks of his parents is just beautiful.
3 minutes into the video. I’m having a hell of a week, but this man has already put my problems into perspective. His outlook is amazing. Respect
Happens everytime with this channel, hahaha! I always go back to the rest of my day feeling inspired to keep on and enjoy life the best I can.
I feel you, these videos often do that for me. I do hope you feel better tho. Sending love and positive vibes ❤
Same here.🙏
@@fvenateafork It's a humbling reminder
@@amyelizabethscraftcorner Thank you so much! ❤️
70 years being trapped in a metal container sounds absolutely terrific. Yet he’s so humble and kind! God bless ❤
Autocorrect 👆
Terrific... Ummmmmmmm
I think they meant terrible
Right
Terrific is correct. Currently, it's generally used to express something positive, but it also means something that causes terror, which was the original use of the word.
I need to revaluate my life. This man smiles more in the video more than I have in the past ten years and I've suffered probably less than one percent of the torment he's been going through. I know I'm late to the party but I just donated to Paul's fundraiser. The man is a beacon of hope and an inspiration.
💯💯
This is so amazing. I got polio the same year he did and suffer the post-polio symptoms now, but have had a relatively normal life. I remember those huge rooms full of iron lung kids, so many of them died. This man is made of special stuff alright. I salute him and all the caring people around him. Thank you for bringing him to us to remind us that there are miraculous achievements all around us. I wish him joy. Love from a fellow survivor Dorothy, five years old in 1952 when I contracted polio. 💐💜
Just so sad when he tried making friends with other child patients and then knowing that they pass away from it
@@20PINKluvr I want to be his friend
I have read that the people in the iron lungs were due to getting polio shot and getting side affects from it . I read this was hidden from the public. I am so glad to find this video and to also read your comment. There are books about it. I don’t know what is true . Did you ever read anything about the hidden secrets about polio!
@@louonUT smh
At first I thought "I could never live with an iron lung" but when he said he'd spent his life doing things people said he couldn't, I changed my mind. Such an inspiring man ❤️
You wouldnt have a choice but to live. It's something abled bodied people say all the time but honestly you don't have a choice.
Nah. No thanks
I struggle with suicidal thoughts lately and videos like that motivate me to keep going. Thank you. I wish I could accomplish as much as Paul did! Such an amazing human being. :)
You may not believe me at the moment but YOU MATTER ❤
it won’t hurt like this forever. i promise. i struggle with them too. it’ll b ok
As someone who struggles with these thoughts from time to time as well, don‘t give up on yourself and go one step after the other. It will get better! :)
Same. Everyday
@@mitch5222 hugs 🫂 sending up a prayer for you today
If u ever think u have problems remember this man he’s a warrior
I'm surprised that with technology today there isn't a way to build a mobile breathing unit for Paul.
If they could attach some mechanism to a wheelchair it would be MUCH easier.
The iron lung has been replaced with the modern day ventilator. Paul says he’s tried them all and prefers the iron king most because it feels more like natural breathing to him.
@@BMPmama698 wow
@@BMPmama698 Yeah. Also it's better for the lungs in the long-term, because they aren't being inflated by force.
@@albireo2990 From what I remember when I was really interested in polio is that those devices do exist. I believe they're called ventilators and they operate on an entirely different principle than the iron lung. Iron lungs force air out of the lungs and have the lungs refill themselves through negative pressure. Ventilators force air into the lungs. As @BMPmama698 has pointed out, Paul has tried the ventilator, but the iron lung just feels more natural. Iron lungs also put much less pressure on the patients lungs, resulting in less potential damage than a ventilator. Unfortunately though, replacement parts for the iron lung are becoming scarce, motivating the scant few affected by polio to use a mixture of ventilators & iron lungs.
I'm sure a part of it for Paul is that it's how he experienced life. I understand it sounds a little funny, but it hasn't stopped him from living a fulfilling life. If my memory serves me right, he had a successful legal career and wrote a book on his experiences living during the polio epidemic and it's affect on society.
TL;DR: there are smaller alternatives that perform a similar function to the iron lung, but what's the point of fixing something that isn't broken.
him talking about his parents made me instantly cry. This Man is so beautiful
Oh I absolutely broke down there. He’s such an appreciative person it’s incredible
I did too. Particularly when he said "they loved me so much", to be able to feel and know that, is so special. It also made me teary-eyed when he recalled his college friends asking him to move with them to another apartment. He smiled so big when he recalled that memory, and I couldn't help but get emotional.
This is not the first time I've seen Paul and his story. Whenever I think of vaccines and spreading awareness I think of him. This man is an incredible, inspiring person. He asked, "What are you doing to make the world better?" and I'm taking that to heart. Just donated, and from now on I'll try my best to follow in his example and create my purpose every day. Thank you Paul!
Still cant trust vaccines so
If someone comes to you and pressures you not to take the vaccine, please IGNORE THEM and walk away. Vaccines have saved countless lives since they were first invented in the early 1900s. My COVID booster is due next week and I’m going for it whether conspiracy theorists like it or not. 😊😊😊
@@sandrafraser7015 imagine y'all still fearing COVID so much you still lining up for shots🤣 silly silly
@@Im.A.Potatoe ...
@@nikamak1617 I said what I said.
Possibly the most inspiring story I’ve ever heard. Rest easy sir.
Glad this man is still alive
I am if he is haha.
I ain’t complaining ever again about none. That guy’s smiling and spreading joy after having not moved in 7 decades.
Inspirational is a euphemism 💯🤩
check back later
Shouldn't compare yourself to others..everyone has a different approach to how they handle things
When life is really hard we get stronger fast and because life is not easy for him he will feel happier when he accomplishes things that are not that hard for us, he is motivated to accomplish great achievements that the average person wouldn't achieve because he has been forced to overcome such difficult things that he finds it easier to go through the pain and hard work of accomplishing the great achievements.
@@imstupidbut i did, his video from 2015 and now his mindset hasnt changed. Bet your at the end of your rope tho depressed as all be. Get better a life dude
@@davidclemens8050 She isn't, it's called inspiration.
How he talks about the love and support from his parents touches me deeply.
I had heard about Paul. It was a couple of years ago. I was amazed to find out he was a practicing lawyer. He was a very special person with a fantastic outlook on life. May God bless him.
I was actually introduced to this man like 6 years ago via algorithm. He was talking about being the last person in the iron lung. And at some point he started writing with a pen under his tongue. It was so long ago. But it's cool to see him again. Glad he's still around.
I was actually just wondering a couple of days ago how he was doing since I heard about him a few years ago. I'm also glad he's doing okay 😊
Same here, saw this in my recommendations and was shocked it had been uploaded a day ago. I hadn’t heard from him in years, I’m surprised he’s still Alive
My grandmother has post polio syndrome because she caught polio a year before the vaccine for it came out when she was a teen. She is not in a iron lung like Paul (post polio syndrome affects people at a later age who recovered from polio when they were younger, onset of symptoms is typically about 30-40 years after the initial polio contraction) but her muscles and cartilage have been progressively disintegrating for about 30 years and she can no longer stand and requires a wheelchair as well as caretakers. This is a devastating disease. I commend Paul for his strength and his bravery in the face of this adversity. Paul is a brilliant and intelligent man and I wish him the best going forward.
Same for my mom. It took them years to figure out she had post polio syndrome.
Interesting how so many polio cases actually originated from the vaccine 🧐.
I was like you Paul for 6-8 weeks in 1952 when I was 8. Tough way to live. They graduated me from iron lung life. Like you I pushed my way back into life. Rehab for me was a miracle chance that you Paul did not have, I knew it, took every chance at a more normal life I could think of. Recently it's been termed neuroplasticity Paul reminded me the first time outside after 4-5 months confined. Inspired a love of life that few others experience. Bless you Paul for hanging in there for 80 years. Like you I've had folks saving my life while others took off with my resources. Plus, handicapped employees at best earn 75c on the dollar. Surviving is the honor you deserve. Just kicked some money in, didn't hurt a bit.
My hat's off to you, ma'am. God bless you
wow
I’m just curious if you can still move your hands and feet or just you head . I don’t think I could be this brave .
@@sololuisvlogs I'm curious as well
❤️
I'm a respiratory therapist, and I saw pictures of him in medical books when I was in school. Great interview.
He’s such a beautiful human being. He lived a full life and the world is better off with him in it. His parents sound incredible. Every parent would love to hear their grown child speak of them with such love and admiration.
He is a living angel
Man. I thank god that I can breathe proper, use my hands and legs every day. This guy reminds me of how precious those kinds of things are. He’s such an inspiration, what a trooper. For real. I feel the same about my parents too. The more I hear him talk I like him even more. The lord is definitely on his side. You can just tell his heart is pure ❤
You may thank goodness, without thanking god. Just a thought on language.
@@Anthony-hu3rj she can thank who'd she like however she'd like
@@katiep3027 Thank you for that!
@@Anthony-hu3rj Seeing as this man with the iron lung also believes in God as well I would say he would appreciate my language and maybe even perhaps see it as an act of graciousness & respect.
Just please think about what I said before trying to criticize someone else for the way they show their gratefulness through their faith
@@1rage17 they won't. Christians like to act like they're the only one whose faith is valid/exists. No other faith or lack of faith is allowed to exist.
when he said his university friends invited him to live with them, and that they took care of him for to years... i teared up. that's true love and true friendship.
His laugh and his smile brought me so much joy. I'm at peace knowing he is no longer in pain. Rest easy, Paul. 🥹❤️🤍
I saw heard about Paul a few months back, I was astonished that he became a Lawyer! Many would have not pursed their dreams or goals, but he did the impossible! Kudos and Great Job! I am Inspired by You and this Channel!
He even had his own law firm. That's incredible!
Could you imagine them wheeling him into the courthouse🫣
@@Alexandra-ng1ih lmao
Chris is an amazing human who has an open mind and always has a smile on his face no matter how dire the situations. He brings people's stories to light and always asks questions with the utmost respect.
Chris was amazing. He is just one of the nicest guys every. I can't thank him enough for what he has done for Paul.
@@danielspinks9006
And thank you for what you do for Paul, Daniel! 👍💙
I want him to do a video on me but my anxiety wouldn't allow it
How does he stay so positive?!? Truly remarkable man and glad to hear him tell his story! What a tragic disease polio was!
Truly the power of the Holy Spirit. No joke. No man alone could handle it otherwise
@@jessi__jack Where is the holy spirit when children are being murdered and women raped? He is simply positive because it is the only thing that keeps him sane.
@@jessi__jack It disappoints me how there's still people that can worship a god that allows such horrible things to happen 🤦
@@Qwerzxcv954 If you knew what you were talking about then you would know that Satan is the father of evil. You should seek God and you’ll find out why this man is still positive.
@@malachilawrence3809 I forgot your message immediately after reading it, because it is of no interest as it contains zero logical arguments. The more I talk to religious individuals, the more I feel sorry for their brainwashing. 😂
I hope his story will remain a reminder for all those parents who refuse to vaccinate their children against poliomyelitis.
Paul, rest in peace. Thank you for being vocal about your life.
"My body my choice" worst quote of all time
my iron lung by radiohead
@tmdaze9281 I'm curious if You're pro-choice or pro-life.
I’m pro do whatever you want and stfu.
Rip😢he passes away when he is 78 years old
I was raised by my grandmother. I still live with her now. She had a brother named Kenneth, he just passed away about 2 or 3 years ago. He was a polio survivor. Got it as a kid, developed severe deformities but it thankfully never resulted in him losing his ability to breathe and he never needed an iron lung. The vaccination was made and put out some several odd years after he contracted polio. His leg and arm were completely twisted all the way around so that they were not only backwards, (his foot was backwards and ankle twisted) but it also turned upside down so his foot was backwards and flipped upside down. He had a special boot made for that leg, and had to walk with a cane and could only use one arm. Despite all of this he did everything this amazing human being in the video did. He went to school, college, and then even managed to get a job and met a lovely woman he fell in love with and married and had a daughter with. He was an extremely positive person and always believed that he and everyone else could do ANYTHING if they put their mind to it. I think Paul is a perfect example of this being true. Every time I saw Kenny (especially the last 2 months he was alive as his kidneys/liver were failing) he never spoke much about himself unless it was something silly /positive (some sort of memory), instead he spoke of god, his faith, but most of all, his favorite thing to do was uplift those around him, compliment them, and tell them to keep pursuing their dreams/talents/hobbies. He asked me to draw him a picture, and constantly reminded me to NEVER stop making art cause he knew I was an artist. He requested I drew him a picture of Jesus Christ. So in my style I did so, and I brought it to him on one of my last visits with him. The second he saw it he started crying his eyes out. He told me it was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen and said "its perfect". Then he had it put up on the wall next to him. He passed away with it next to him. I miss Kenneth. I hope that some day when the lord takes Paul from us (I see that Paul is religious), that he can meet Kenny, and also all of the kids that he met and lost on his journey with this iron lung/polio. I hope to see more videos/updates of him as people continue to contribute to helping him. He is an incredible beacon of hope and inspiration during an era such as this. We should all learn to be more like Paul. Thank you for everything you do Paul and SBSK.
Your comment made me cry. We all need people like Kenny in our life. You are extremely blessed to have had him. God bless you.
This is so inspirational. This man is trapped in a machine that he hasn’t/won’t ever be able to leave but still remains grateful and seems genuinely happy. Enough to bring a tear to your eye.
true
I think one of my favorite parts of his story is the college friends taking him in and taking care of him for 2 years, you can tell it was an extremely good experience for him.
My mom suffered polio when she was a baby, they said she wouldn’t live to be 3. Then at 3 said wouldn’t live to be 5. I hear stories from my grandparents of how she stopped breathing over a dozen times. Been declared dead 4 times. Lived in the hospital as a kid with dozens of surgeries.
She ended up beating it and she can’t bend one of her legs due to polio. She had me when she was 40 years old. 40. The most amazing person I know. She’s now 66 and lived through so much. She gives such inspiration such a loving person.
This story of the last iron lung is really interesting and inspirational. Went to college and is such a nice guy. Most people my age(mid 20’s) have no clue how absolutely devastating polio was. Thank you so much for this story. Really puts into perspective how lucky my mom was and how lucky i am to exist. Keep up the good work.
This man is an absolute legend and the fact that you had the opportunity to interview him is incredible.
I agree 💯
My grandpa was a polio survivor as well. He had to stay in an iron lung as a kid and was lucky enough to make a near-full recovery. Thank you for sharing Paul’s story!
I am the only Kat and the only being reflecting love / astral / nature related emojis - the misused special name Kat and the misused emojis must be edited out and changed!
I also am the only God / Goddess and all other big / respectability terms etc and all other special / big names and flower / nature / color related terms and emojis etc - while the creator of this harrible wrong worId is the exact opposite of such terms!
I've just learned that he passed away on Monday 11th of March. What a life he went trough and he went trough fearlessly as a real hero of humanity... Have a good journey back to home Paul!!!
Hopefully someone who knows mechanics and has machines to make spare parts can see this video and can help Paul by creating spare parts for his iron lungs.
Watching the video brought tears to my eyes because of Paul's kindness and as he continues to deal with his illness, he is truly an amazing person.
This is a true testament to the statement " there is always someone out there struggling more than you". This man, is so sweet, and welcoming!
What a remarkable, marvelous man. And thank you, Jonas Salk. He said he “stood on the shoulders of giants.” I hope everyone knows who he was. His is as incredible a story as Paul’s.
I’m sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but his story was lies. He stole his ideas from female researchers and didn’t give them credit. He was one of many, but this crazy false story was concocted to be easily told. And he didn’t give away the patent out of generosity, i have forgotten the details but it wasn’t altruism. Sad that history has been falsified.
My soul is breaking for this man. His spirit and optimism remind me both of how much I take for granted and what true inspiration really looks like. This is beyond the pale of comparison. The world needs to know Paul's story.
This guy deserves a award for being the most kindest and friendliest person on UA-cam
He sure does" so determined for life
The misused big terms award and most and kindest and friendliest and guy that only reflect my pure protectors aka the alphas and me the only being who dsvs awards and everything must be edited out!
humnz
dsrv nada!
humnz are chaotic things born from chaos and the most sakryIegiux zynz that are bound to create more chaos / zyn by continuing the vicious cycle of so-called 'life' if they don't become aware or if all the wrong things such as btg and bngng aren't b4nnedfaster
My sister caught it in 1955. In those days, it was like the Black Plague - silent but pervading fear everywhere. I'll never forget the quarantine placard nailed to our front door. My parents got a little involved with Sister Kenny in helping her raise funds. While not stated, I suppose this man had Bulbar Polio - the worst kind. And the specter of the iron lung was much loathed, because it meant that victims would never leave it and would likely not live long. I didn't know there were any iron lung occupants left - this man is amazing.
...and it doesn't pull a vacuum of 40 psi (impossible) but 40 inches of water - about 1.44 psi...
I can believe people as grand as his parents existed... He clearly inherited it.
I'll be sure to spread the kind of love that I got from this video; the kind I whish to become through my life.
Every time he smiled or laughed I smiled. His energy is infectious
Rest in Peace, Paul. May you be joyfully reunited with your loved ones that went before you.
I’ve watched a documentary on Paul a while ago…! It’s so sad that those who were entrusted to look after him and care for him stole from him…!
There is really no end to human depravity. Thankfully we have people like Chris to tip the balance every once in a while and give incredible people like Paul a voice.
People can be so evil and cold blooded. Karma will get those individuals for sure.
The absolute lowest of the low...i hope the police can get them.
Smh
What did they steal? I didn't see the documentary.
I’m brought to my knees listening to Paul and what he has done with his life. YOU are the man Paul. I’m so amazed that his college roommates took him with them!
Kind of reminds me of the We Carry Kevin story! Kevin’s friends carried him around the world in a special backpack!
Watching a man that most people would look at as having a “worse life” yet here we see him being more positive and more thankful than almost everyone I know is truly inspiring. For him to see his trials as a gift from God and not “unfair” is an outstanding personal testimony that we can all learn from. This is man is inspiring
Kudos to this person. To be able to lay in this iron lung for his whole life takes effort. RIP Paul.
I’m 76 and remember Polio. Thankfully I didn’t know anyone who contracted it. I also remember when the shots became available but never received them for some reason-can’t remember but one of my sisters remembers getting hers. This man is such a WONDERFUL human being❤
Ppl were probably getting it from vaccines, reason you didn't get it
Oh gosh, I just remembered. My cousins ex-husband had it as a kid, had no lasting effects until many years later when he got post polio syndrome. I hear that others have that syndrome too.
People like Paul are so fascinating. How can you go through that and still crack jokes and smile? It's genuinely impressive. Best wishes to Paul.
He used to be someone’s child
Its called resilience. There are scientific studies about it. A scientist calles Antonovky researched this field.
I saw Paul’s story before, I bought his book that HE wrote ! I was crying sooo much, his story got stuck with me for a long time. He is so powerful and I wish him all the best !
What's the name of the book?
@@annaduh9824 it’s called „3 minutes for a Dog“
WOW, there's a book about him???
@@desratlinda8639 : Paul wrote the book himself! 🙂
I'd like to read his book but I'm at the end of the world. Can I get it on internet?😌
Rest In Paradise Paul 😇🫶🙏💟✝️☮️✝️💟
What an amazing guy . They really need to make a movie about his life so that people never forget how devastating polio was . It just seems like something only found in history books , but there are an estimated 10 to 20 million polio survivors still alive today with varying degrees of problems , Paul is probably the very top of that scale which is what makes his story so inspiring . I would like to think that if he lived near me I'd go visit him regularly .
Brendan Fraser would be an amazing actor for this movie!!
Polio was always on the lips of my family because my mom had it when she was three. Although she didn't have it so bad that she needed an iron lung, the disease ravaged her abdominal muscles and diaphragm, caused one leg to be shorter than the other, which in turn caused a host of back issues throughout her life.
@@seanh7255 Absolutely .
@@katherinemurphy2762 That sounds terrible . I think my parents would've been some of the first kids to receive the polio vaccine but they did grow up at a time when every school had children deafened by the German measles . My father had two close childhood friends , a brother and sister , who were both deaf from it that he kept in touch with his entire life .
Also a reminder to parents , who don’t believe in vaccinations. History does repeat itself. This man is amazing. Reason why vaccinations have been invented for.
It breaks my heart this man doesn’t have a wife or someone to love him or the ability to have children. Yet it hasn’t wavered or dampened his spirits. What an inspiration!
He is unbreakable
Not having a wife could be a blessing lol but yea this guy is mentally strong
What do you mean?! He has Jesus Christ! He has The Lord! He has our Heavenly Father... he's VERY loved.
@@tommiepattonkendrickiii1617 You’re right
@@tommiepattonkendrickiii1617 Yeh but that's most likely dark age mythology
3 degrees, including a law degree! This is so humbling. The very definition of resilience and love for life. Imagine what he would have achieved had he not had polio. Thìs man deserves a major award!
Someone should help him build his own youtube channels and give talks.
I think he achieved everything that he was supposed to👍. I bet most people don't achieve everything they are meant to.
The positive attitude of this man.. blows me away. Incredible..
Paul is a superhero! I've been disabled and in a lot of pain since early childhood, Paul has really helped me to have courage, tenacity and gratitude for all I've been given. His story has inspired me to persue my lifelong dream of becoming a biologist, and to him I will forever be grateful. Paul, you are full of God's light, and through you our spirits are warmed and illuminated. Thank you. 💚🙏🏼💚🙏🏼
So true,
I’ve seen Paul on the internet before and his life story is an amazing one. I hope he realizes how inspirational he is and what an interesting story he shares! ❤️
@@desratlinda8639 nope
@@AimToBlossom I guess he used to, but not anymore huh
Oh my goodness. I remember watching an interview with him a very long time ago. Glad to know he’s doing ok!
Same. That’s why I clicked on this. Couldn’t believe he was still alive.
There should be a life long documentary dedicated to this man. True battler, what a legend! If you think your life is bad........!
now i say what life actually is 🥺❤️
I'm going through the hardest trial of my life and hearing him speak and how he never gave up and his parents, I will fight til my last through this trial im going through and am eternally grateful for this interview and his words I will never forget all of it
I don’t know you or what you are going through. I just wanted to say that God created you with so much love. He has you in the palm of His hand, everything is going to be alright. I hope you are able to get good rest and have a clear mind to face whatever comes your way in this challenging life... You are never alone and you are loved beyond measure. God bless you. ❤️🌷✝️🕊
I hope everything works out for the best for you. Keep fighting, but know that it’s also ok to feel sad, angry, or hopeless.
He is beyond an inspiration. Truly a living proof of both how hard and mercyless this world is and the power of human determination.
Makes me appreciate everything and see the world differently. He is a legend, he had amazing parents, man what a life.
He is truly an incredible person. God bless that man.
Wow, this guy has had an extraordinary life experience. Tough doesn't even come close to describe it. I wo Derek if he was still alive. I'm glad he is.