Secret History

Children of the Iron Lung

Directed by Ann Hawker
TV-PG
S8 • E7    Sep 21, 2000
For the greater part of the twentieth century, polio spread panic throughout the western world and caused paralysis in its victims, who were encased in iron lungs and fitted with callipers to support their weakened limbs. The story of these years is explored through the memories of patients, medical staff and policy makers, and asks whether or not the government was too cautious in its introduction of the polio vaccine.

Where to Watch Secret History - S8 • E7

  • Ray BrooksSelf - Narrator
  • Hilary AlexanderSelf
  • Marjorie CrothersSelf
  • Janet Fishercast
  • George E. GodberSelf - Deputy Chief Medical Officer, 1950-1960
  • Tony GouldSelf - Author: 'Polio and Its Survivors'
  • Anne HardySelf - Medical Historian
  • June Harveycast
  • June HickingbothamSelf - Fever Nurse, Hull
  • Tim Mallinsoncast
  • Audrey MasseySelf - Jean's Mother
  • Gilbert MerrickSelf - Goalkeeper, Birmingham City
  • Grace PottsSelf - Orthopaedic Nurse, 1950-1957
  • Franklin D. RooseveltSelf
  • Jean Saunderscast
  • Leslie SharpSelf - Hull Department of Health
  • Geoffrey SpencerSelf - Former Director, Lane Fox Respiratory Unit
  • Derek Walker-SmithSelf - Minister for Health, 1957-1960
  • Ann HawkerDirector / Producer
  • Sarah MurchExecutive Producer

 

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