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Last American polio survivor in an iron lung dies at 78
NewsNation • • health
Key Points:
- Martha Ann Lillard, the last polio survivor in America reliant on an iron lung, passed away at age 78 after living more than 70 years dependent on the machine.
- Lillard contracted polio in 1953, before the vaccine was widely available, and spent six months in the hospital learning to breathe with the aid of the iron lung.
- Despite attempts with modern respirators, only the iron lung provided the necessary pressure for her breathing, and she used it primarily during sleep in her later years.
- Over time, Lillard faced challenges including post-polio syndrome, COVID-19 infections, and difficulties maintaining her vintage iron lung, which required rare parts and specialized knowledge.
- She lived independently for much of her life, was an artist and animal lover, married twice, and spent her final days fully dependent on the iron lung until her peaceful passing in June.
