Aidan Gray and Robert Bell

Recorded April 30, 2022 Archived April 30, 2022 41:36 minutes
0:00 / 0:00
Id: mby021683

Description

Aidan Gray (16) interviews his grandfather Robert Bell (77) about his experiences as a father, grandfather, and scientist after contracting polio as young child.

Subject Log / Time Code

RB discusses contracting polio at age 2, the resulting paralysis, and the brace he wears on one of his legs.
RB remembers managing high school sports teams and strengthening his upper body alongside athletes.
RB explains how he contracted polio at a family picnic.
RB recalls being empowered by his mother to learn alongside non-disabled peers.
RB shares that he has never thought of himself as limited.
RB condemns the anti-vaccine movement from his perspective as a microbiologist and reflects on the lack of a vaccine for polio at the time of his diagnosis.
RB shares his contentment with his life and gratitude for his family.
RB recalls nearly being drafted to fight in the Vietnam War, and living in fear that he would be sent overseas.
RB remembers his son, Chris, who passed away at age 30.
RB discusses his various professional positions and his travel for work.
RB talks about caring for his own parents in their old age and spending time with his grandchildren.
RB reflects on childhood in rural Arkansas.

Participants

  • Aidan Gray
  • Robert Bell

Recording Locations

The Library Center

Places