Paul Alexander is a living testament to a period when the global populace was gripped by trepidation over the pervasive threat of infectious diseases. Diagnosed with polio at the tender age of six, Alexander’s life took a drastic turn as the disease left him paralyzed from the neck down. Subsequently, his existence became intertwined with the mechanical contraption known as the iron lung, a life-sustaining device he has relied upon since 1952 to facilitate breathing.
Despite the formidable obstacles imposed by his physical condition, the Dallas, Texas resident has steadfastly utilized his TikTok platform, @ironlungman, to impart valuable health updates and to share personal anecdotes that serve as a beacon of hope to his audience. However, a recent update concerning Alexander’s health, disseminated via his social media channels, has become a concern for his fans.
Lincoln, Paul Alexander’s Social media manager, shares an emotional update about his health
@ironlungman Please keep Paul in your thoughts and prayers! ❤️🙏#conversationswithpaul #ironlung #poliopaul #PaulAlexander ♬ Chopin Nocturne No. 2 Piano Mono – moshimo sound design
Alexander’s social media manager, Lincoln, took to Alexander’s TikTok page to share a significant health update. In the video post, Lincoln disclosed that the Texas resident had been hospitalized after contracting COVID-19. “Paul was rushed to the emergency room in the hospital. He tested positive for Covid, which is obviously really, really dangerous for someone with his condition,” he said in the clip. “Fortunately, they have an iron lung at the hospital set up for him, and he was able to come home this weekend, but unfortunately, he’s still kind of weak. He’s still got some confusion going around, and he’s been struggling to eat and hydrate, so for that reason, we’ll be holding off on uploading videos for a little longer.”
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He also urged Alexander’s followers to actively contribute in whatever capacity they could by engaging with his content on TikTok or supporting his fundraising efforts on GoFundMe. “Please keep Paul in your thoughts and prayers!” he added.
Fans flooded the comment section of the video to express their concerns for Alexander’s health and wish him a speedy recovery. “Who on earth put this precious man in jeopardy. I hope he has a speedy recovery and no lasting harm,” a fan wrote. “Best wishes, Paul.”
“Paul, take your time. Glad you are okay, take your time to rest and get better!!!” another person commented, while a third wrote. “Paul, you have given me many words of support when I needed them. Just know that I am thinking of you, your health, and wellbeing.”