List of polio survivors

List of Polio Survivors details individuals who have survived poliomyelitis (polio), a highly infectious viral disease that primarily affects children under the age of five. The disease can lead to permanent disability and even death. However, many have survived polio, going on to lead impactful lives in various fields. This article lists notable survivors, emphasizing their contributions and the diverse paths they have taken post-recovery.

Overview

Poliomyelitis, commonly known as polio, is a viral disease that can affect nerves and lead to partial or full paralysis. The disease has been largely eradicated in most parts of the world thanks to effective vaccination campaigns. However, before the widespread availability of the polio vaccine, outbreaks of the disease caused numerous cases of paralysis and disability.

Notable Polio Survivors

Science and Medicine

• Jonas Salk – Developed the first successful polio vaccine. His work has saved countless lives and virtually eliminated polio in many parts of the world.

Politics

• Franklin D. Roosevelt – The 32nd President of the United States, whose polio diagnosis at the age of 39 led him to become a major advocate for polio research and the founding of the March of Dimes foundation.
• Fidel Castro – The former Prime Minister and President of Cuba was suspected to have had polio as a child, which affected his leg.

Arts and Entertainment

• Frida Kahlo – Renowned Mexican painter known for her self-portraits, Kahlo contracted polio at the age of six, which left her with a lifelong limp.
• Itzhak Perlman – World-renowned violinist who contracted polio at the age of four but went on to have a celebrated career in music.

Sports

• Wilma Rudolph – An American sprinter who overcame childhood polio to win three gold medals in track and field at the 1960 Olympic Games.

Impact on Lives

The individuals listed have not only survived polio but have also thrived in their respective fields, often using their platform to advocate for polio research, disability rights, and public health. Their stories serve as a testament to the human spirit's resilience and the importance of medical research in combating infectious diseases.

See Also

• Poliomyelitis
• Polio vaccine
• March of Dimes

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