Ottawa woman hoping clinical trial will help others conquer COVID-19 – CBC
Researchers trying to determine whether stem cells can aid recovery from illness
Apr 15, 2021
An Ottawa woman who was severely ill with COVID-19 earlier this year has taken part in a clinical trial led by researchers at The Ottawa Hospital that could help future patients.
Sharon Charlebois, 73, was admitted to The Ottawa Hospital in January. During her month-long stay she needed a feeding tube, oxygen and a ventilation helmet. Up to 40 per cent of COVID-19 patients who enter the intensive care unit (ICU) don’t survive, according to the hospital. “I was feeling terrible, very tired. I think I slept a lot, I don’t remember a lot,” said Charlebois.
Charlebois agreed to take part in a clinical trial designed to determine whether stem cells from the umbilical cord can help the body’s immune system fight COVID-19, while reducing damage to vital organs.
