A local sheriffs deputy is out of work following his diagnosis with COVID-19.
Sgt. Josh Horner told News 5 he woke up eight months ago with an ear ache, and by the next day, he was nearly deaf. Researchers have been studying his case as a COVID long-hauler. Horner has forever found his identity in public service. As a sergeant with the Russell County Sheriffs Office, he is responsible for the animal control division and the county animal shelter. He has also served the department and other local agencies as an advanced emergency medical technician (EMT) and firefighter. Ive done it since I was 18 years old. Its all Ive ever done, all Ive ever known, Horner said. He, however, has not been able to do any of that since October of last year when the 32-year-old was put on medical leave after a COVID-19 diagnosis. I went to sleep hearing and woke up the next morning, and almost all of my hearing was almost gone, Horner said. I had a very mild case. I didnt feel bad. I just lost my hearing. I had to get hearing aids within 10 days of testing positive. Horner said he was fully vaccinated by January of 2021, months prior to his positive COVID test in October. He now visits Vanderbilt Medical University Center, which includes seeing researcher and physician Dr. Wes Ely. Ely is a team member and co-director of the Critical Illness, Brain Dysfunction and Survivorship (CIBS) Center. Its really important to realize that COVID is a virus, which not only affects the lungs, but affects the blood flow to many parts of our body. Ive had multiple patients go completely deaf from COVID, Ely said. Ely told News 5 Horners condition is a result of long-COVID, which he estimates is now affecting about one in five people worldwide. The COVID virus comes in. You have your accurate illness, then it goes away, and you think youre free and clear, then about 100 days later, the problems with your immune system and with your nervous system really kick in, Ely said. Horner has also been recently diagnosed with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and cognitive dysfunction, all while his hearing continues to worsen. He has already had to have an upgrade to stronger hearing aids. He is scheduled to visit Nashville again in August for his next treatments to prepare for cochlear implants in both ears. Its affected my whole life. I will not be the same person as before, Horner said. Horner said his cochlear implants are expected to cost anywhere from $35,000-$50,000 per ear.
Members of the community are hosting a fundraiser this Sunday from 1-6 p.m. in the backyard of the Western Front Hotel in St. Paul. Horner told News 5 any money raised will go directly to medical costs.
Dr. Ely also wants families who are experiencing complications with long COVID to have access to resources. He has written a book called 'Every Deep Drawn Breath' to share patient stories. All of the proceeds from the book are being donated to help with health recovery efforts for patients.