From Misdiagnosis to Advocacy: How OrthoCarolina Helped One Patient Reclaim Her Life After Lyme Disease
After ten years and 18 joint replacements and reconstructions, OrthoCarolina turns one patient’s misdiagnosis into a journey of hope and advocacy
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — May 22, 2025 — Meghan Bradshaw was just 25 when severe joint pain appeared seemingly overnight. Once active and independent, she found herself unable to walk, dress, or function on her own. She returned to her mother’s care while doctors struggled to explain her condition.
After two years of misdiagnosis and ineffective treatments for rheumatoid arthritis, Bradshaw finally received clarity. She tested positive for Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. That diagnosis came after she turned to OrthoCarolina, where her orthopedic team helped connect her with a specialist who identified the root cause of her symptoms. Though the diagnosis came with its own challenges, it offered the one thing she had been missing: hope.
Over the next six years, Bradshaw underwent 18 joint replacements and reconstructions at OrthoCarolina, including procedures on her shoulders, elbows, hips, knees, hands, and meniscus. Her care was guided by a team of four orthopedic specialists who worked together to create a patient-centered, personalized treatment plan tailored to her needs.
“When I was finally diagnosed with Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases, it felt like I had a chance to fight again,” said Bradshaw. “The doctors at OrthoCarolina didn’t just treat my joints – they helped restore pieces of my life I thought were lost forever. Every surgery brought me closer to feeling like myself again.”
OrthoCarolina’s collaborative care model played a critical role in her recovery. Surgeons, physical therapists, and staff maintained open communication with Bradshaw throughout each stage of treatment. Shared decision-making, comprehensive education, and clear expectations helped her feel confident and supported at every step.
“Meghan’s case of Lyme arthropathy was one of the most advanced that I’ve encountered,” said Dr. Glenn Gaston, a hand specialist at OrthoCarolina. “She showed extraordinary resilience throughout her entire journey. Our goal wasn’t just to restore joint function, but it was also to help give her life back.”
Today, Bradshaw calls herself the “Bionic Woman,” a title she embraces with pride. But her story doesn’t end with recovery, it’s evolved into advocacy. After earning her master’s in public health from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, she became a national voice for Lyme disease awareness, meeting with more than 100 members of Congress to push for improved education, diagnosis, and care for tick-borne illnesses.
“I’ve turned my pain into purpose,” Bradshaw said. “Every time I share my story, it’s for the people still searching for answers, just like I was.”
Marking a decade since her first symptoms, Bradshaw’s journey continues. This May, during Lyme Disease Awareness Month, her voice stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, the value of accurate diagnosis, and the life-changing impact of compassionate, expert care.
OrthoCarolina is proud to be part of Meghan’s story and supports patients not just through surgery, but through the full arc of healing.
About OrthoCarolina
Since 1922, OrthoCarolina has been a distinguished and reputable physician-owned and physician-led orthopedic practice that prioritizes delivering exceptional patient-centered care and pioneering solutions. An industry leader in orthopedic treatment, research, and education, they provide world-class musculoskeletal care across the Carolinas with 40+ locations and seven Orthopedic Urgent Care Centers. OrthoCarolina consistently pushes the boundaries of medical advancements and actively contributes to the training of new specialists, while working to enhance accessibility to unparalleled orthopedic care. Learn more at orthocarolina.com
