Martha Lillard, Last American to Use an Iron Lung, Dies at 78
Martha Lillard, who contracted polio at age five, has died at 78. She relied on an iron lung to breathe for most of her life.
Martha Lillard, the last American to use an iron lung, died at the age of 78. She contracted polio when she was five years old and had relied on the iron lung to breathe for most of her life. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Lillard was able to spend some time outside of her iron lung, but the pandemic left her dependent on the machine nearly 24 hours a day.
Lillard's case was a reminder of the impact of polio, a disease that was largely eradicated in the United States thanks to widespread vaccination efforts. Her story also highlighted the challenges faced by people with disabilities and the importance of accessibility and support.
The iron lung, also known as a respirator, was a common treatment for polio patients in the mid-20th century. It helped patients breathe by creating a vacuum that expanded and contracted their lungs.
Go Deeper
What is an iron lung?
An iron lung is a respirator that helps patients breathe by creating a vacuum that expands and contracts their lungs. It was commonly used to treat polio patients in the mid-20th century.
How did Martha Lillard contract polio?
Martha Lillard contracted polio when she was five years old. The exact circumstances of her diagnosis are not specified, but polio was a common disease in the United States at the time.
What was the impact of COVID-19 on Martha Lillard's health?
The COVID-19 pandemic left Martha Lillard dependent on her iron lung nearly 24 hours a day. This was an increase from her previous usage, and it highlights the challenges faced by people with disabilities during the pandemic.
Is polio still a common disease in the United States?
No, polio is no longer a common disease in the United States. Thanks to widespread vaccination efforts, the disease has been largely eradicated in the country.
What is the significance of Martha Lillard's story?
Martha Lillard's story is a reminder of the impact of polio and the importance of accessibility and support for people with disabilities. It also highlights the challenges faced by people who rely on medical equipment like iron lungs to breathe.
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