New UNC program helps those hit hardest by COVID-19

Dr. John Michael Baratta has seen those hardest hit by COVID-19.

While some people get back to normal relatively soon, for others those effects become long-term.

Dr. Baratta teamed up with UNC Health and the UNC School of Medicine to create a program to help those struggling the most.

The program has drawn 75 people, who are dealing with fatigue, shortness of breath, anxiety and sleep difficulties among other problems brought on by COVID-19.

Quinn Howard from Pink Hill knows the struggles all too well. Howard has dealt with lingering effects from COVID-19. Howard got COVID-19 last summer and lost his sense of smell and taste. He eventually felt better, but and things took a turn for the worse in September.

"I would have to go to urgent care, into the ER several times," said Howard, who said he'd go days without leaving his house.

Howard, who sees a neurologist because of his COVID-19-related struggles, is still fighting to get back to a good quality of life.

"I want to be pain-free," Howard said. "I want to be able to come home at night every night and be able to enjoy my children. I'll be able to get to that point again, soon I hope."

Dr. Baratta said the program starts with a hybrid telemedicine consultation and in-person evaluation. They’ve been seeing people from all over the state and it’s open for anyone to join.

"I think this is a really important part of recovery for people who are still struggling going to get back to their prior daily activities," Dr. Baratta said.