Despite the challenges he faced, Alexander 786, or Paul as he preferred to be called, lived a life that defied all odds. From the moment he was diagnosed with polio at a young age, he was determined to prove that nothing could hold him back. Despite spending 18 months in an iron lung to recover from the virus, he never gave up on his dreams and aspirations.
Throughout his life, Paul was met with skepticism and doubt from others, but he refused to accept any limitations on what he could achieve. With the support of his therapist and his own unwavering determination, he learned to breathe without the iron lung for short periods, and this marked a turning point in his life. He gradually gained more independence and began to pursue his education.
Paul’s academic achievements were extraordinary. He became the first person to graduate from Dallas High School with honors without physically attending classes. His tenacity and perseverance led him to gain admission to Southern Methodist University and then law school at the University of Texas at Austin. Despite facing rejection, he fought for his rightful place in academia and succeeded in becoming a lawyer, earning respect and admiration for his skills in the courtroom.
Despite new and advanced technologies becoming available, Paul chose to continue using the iron lung. To him, the metal chamber symbolized his strength and determination in overcoming adversity. He even made desperate pleas to find spare parts for the aging machine when it almost broke down, demonstrating his unwavering loyalty to the tool that helped him survive and thrive.
Paul’s journey is an inspiring reminder that determination and a strong will can overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. He not only defied medical expectations but also shattered societal expectations. He proved that disability should never be a barrier to achieving one’s dreams and ambitions.
Through his experiences, Paul became an advocate for polio eradication and emphasized the importance of vaccination. While polio has been eliminated in the United States, he remains vigilant about the occasional vaccine-derived cases that still arise. He knows firsthand the devastating impact of the disease and hopes that through education and awareness, polio will one day be eradicated worldwide.
As Paul continues to live his life in the iron lung, he has authored a book, typed using a pen attached to his stick, and is working on another. He cherishes every moment and remains a symbol of resilience, courage, and the indomitable human spirit.
Paul’s story serves as a testament to the power of hope, determination, and the refusal to let circumstances define one’s life. His remarkable journey reminds us all that the only limits we have are the ones we place upon ourselves, and that with unwavering faith and perseverance, we can accomplish incredible feats, no matter the obstacles in our path.
