David L. Archer President | Christian Brothers University website

Since the age of eight, running has been an integral part of Meghan Turner's life. Now a senior at Christian Brothers University (CBU), Meghan's journey as a runner has been marked by determination and resilience. Her passion for running was tested during her freshman year in 2021 when she experienced unexplained fatigue and declining performance.

Meghan sought medical advice from local orthopedic physicians but received no definitive diagnosis, only anti-inflammatories that failed to help. "Running is so mental, and I wasn’t getting good times," she said. Feeling disappointed after struggling at a regional meet in Lakeland, Florida, Meghan decided to pursue further investigation.

X-rays revealed early hip dysplasia, a condition where the femoral head is not fully covered by the socket, posing risks such as arthritis and joint dislocation. The recommended treatment was surgery. After researching options, Meghan chose a specialist in St. Louis who focuses on young athletes.

The surgeries were extensive: bilateral periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) along with repairs to surrounding tissue. The first operation took place in February 2022 and the second in July 2022, each followed by challenging recovery periods involving physical therapy and gradual mobility restoration.

Despite being warned that many athletes do not return to running post-surgery, Meghan was determined to defy expectations. “Distance runners usually don’t get back to running,” she recalled her doctor saying, to which she responded, “I’m going to try to prove you wrong.”

Last season, Meghan set personal records in every race for CBU’s track and cross-country teams. This cross-country season saw her break the 20-minute barrier for her 5K time and earn all-Gulf South Conference honors. "That made me so unbelievably happy," said Meghan.

To maintain her fitness without overstraining her hips, Meghan adopted the "Parker Valby approach"—cross-training methods used by an NCAA runner known for success despite limited weekly runs due to injury history.

“Meghan spent endless hours rehabbing," said Bill Hoffman, CBU cross country head coach. "She is excelling in the Gulf South Conference."

As graduation approaches with honors in marketing and business administration focused on sports management, Meghan plans further education while continuing her passion for running.

“I’ve never seen an athlete with so much determination and drive after her surgery,” said Coach Hoffman about his longtime team member’s perseverance.