Last American to use an iron lung dies at 78 years old after childhood polio diagnosis
Martha Lillard of Oklahoma passed away at age 78, having spent most of her life managing the severe effects of a childhood polio diagnosis. Contracting polio at just five years old left her paralyzed from the neck down, requiring her to use an iron lung—a mechanical breathing apparatus—to support her respiratory function, particularly during sleep.
Lillard's death represents a significant historical moment, as she was the last American known to depend on an iron lung for survival. Her seven decades living with severe paralysis and reliance on this technology illustrate both the lasting impact of polio on individuals and families, and the ways that medical devices have enabled people with significant disabilities to sustain long lives.
- Martha Lillard, 78, died after living with polio since childhood age 5, which left her paralyzed from the neck down
- She was the last American to depend on an iron lung for breathing assistance throughout her life
- Her death marks the end of an era for a medical technology once critical during polio epidemics