These Politicians Have Battled Through Chronic Health Issues - Page 14 of 32

Photo of Franklin Delano Roosevelt who suffered polio paralysis — PHOTO: NATIONAL ARCHIVES AND RECORDS ADMINISTRATION/WIKIMEDIA.COM

Franklin D. Roosevelt

One of the greatest Presidents in American history, FDR suffered an extreme polio attack in 1921 that left him paralyzed from the chest down. He never again regained motor function in his legs and was confined to a wheelchair or forced to use crutches to walk or stand for the rest of his life. FDR’s political power was however undiminished, as he went on to win a record four Presidential nominations.