Dr. Erin Nance, a trailblazing orthopedic surgeon and social media sensation, is opening up in her debut memoir, Little Miss Diagnosed: A Surgeon’s Guide to Breaking Bones and Bending Rules. The book chronicles her remarkable journey through tragedy, resilience, and transformation in the high-stakes world of modern medicine.
Nance, known on TikTok as @littlemissdiagnosed, rose to popularity for her candid, often emotional storytelling from inside hospital walls. But her real-life story goes far beyond viral moments. On her very first day as a surgical intern, Nance’s life changed when her brother suffered a catastrophic diving accident that left him a quadriplegic. That personal crisis became the foundation of a career grounded in empathy, advocacy, and hope.
Her memoir delves into the challenges of navigating the medical field, not just as a woman in a male-dominated specialty, but as someone forced to reconcile the personal with the professional. With orthopedics being 94% male, Nance’s story resonates with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider or been underestimated.
The book also serves as a powerful reminder of the human side of healthcare. Whether dealing with misdiagnoses, chronic pain, or the struggle to be believed by medical professionals, Nance emphasizes the power of hope and the importance of finding people who see and support you.
While the book is rooted in her experiences as a doctor, it’s far from just a medical memoir. With elements of drama, reflection, and raw honesty, Little Miss Diagnosed is for anyone who’s faced adversity and come out stronger, making it a compelling read for both patients and professionals alike.
Little Miss Diagnosed is available now at Barnes & Noble, independent bookstores, Amazon, and local libraries. Fans can also follow Dr. Nance on Instagram (@doctorerinnance), and catch her on The Medical Detectives podcast on Spotify and Apple.
