Last known US polio survivor who relied on an iron lung dies at 78

Martha Lillard, the last known US survivor of polio, passed away. She was 78 years old at the time of her death. Lillard had lived with an iron lung for decades. The iron lung is a mechanical respirator used during past polio epidemics. Her death marks the end of an era for US polio survivors. She was recognized as the final person still using the device. The case underscores the lasting legacy of the 20th‑century disease. Her passing was reported on July 12, 2026.