First Female African-American Surgeon Shapes Orthopaedics

Wayne A. Johnson, MD

When individuals achieve unlikely and near-impossible feats, it is often done with the help of mentors and others who motivate them to never give up. Claudia Lynn Thomas, MD, had the unwavering support of her parents, Charles, who taught her carpentry and the importance of a strong work ethic, and Daisy, who taught her the alphabet and how to sew. Those skills and foundational building blocks, coupled with an exceptional education and a loving, supportive family, helped propel Dr.