Foreword: the experience that changed the course of my life / by Doris Alexander -- Paul's mother -- Fear of polio and I got it! -- Hospital horror -- children are falling and I'm still here -- why? -- At home -- rediscovering my family, education, home schooling and making friends in the real world -- Discovering my first breath, learning to breath, and achieving my dream -- More about home school, Claire, SMU, love and sex, at the pinnacle of my life Dallas best -- on our way -- The devastating break -- making it in the world without Mom and Dad, moving on... my closing year at SMU and transition to The University of Texas, Austin -- Overcoming the obstacle that Paul needed in becoming independent and self-sufficient -- obtaining care and the necessities of life. Do I stay, and fight it out or go home to the easy life with Mom and Dad? -- Blessings come in the form of family and friendships. Paul Brown, RN came into my life and developed a significant and lasting relationship in the nick of time. TIME -- Three Minutes for a Dog.
Summary:
"Paul Alexander was a normal, vibrant and active child until he was paralyzed by polio in Dallas, Texas at 6 years of age. Five days after contracting the disease he was unable to voluntarily move, or even breath[e], he has miraculously survived, established a law practice and is living a full life. He has lived with critical assistance of an "iron lung" for over 67 years. With profound love and constant encouragement from his supportive family and a cast of dedicated teachers, care givers, physicians, physical therapist and a host of friends he has crafted a life that defies the severity of his fight with polio. This book is a product of a lifetime. For over five years he has used an improvised stick in his mouth to type every word in this manuscript. This book is his story of courage against all odds told straight from his heart."--Back cover.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.