Lauren Wasser, a California-based model, experienced a life-changing tragedy after using a product millions of women rely on monthly. In 2012, she fell seriously ill, initially believing she had the flu. However, doctors soon discovered something far more dangerous: menstrual toxic shock syndrome (mTSS), a rare but severe bacterial infection linked to tampon use.
The infection spread rapidly throughout her body, landing her in a coma for more than a week. When she regained consciousness, doctors had to amputate her right leg to save her life. At just 24 years old, Lauren’s world had been turned upside down.
“I did everything correctly,” she later explained. “I used the same brand of tampons and followed all instructions. But that day, toxins entered my bloodstream, and my life nearly ended. I had a 42-degree fever, organ failure, and two heart attacks — I had just a one-percent chance of survival,” she told Harper’s Bazaar.
Lauren’s harrowing experience led her to take legal action against Kotex Natural Balance, the tampon brand she had been using. “The vagina is the most absorbent part of the body and connects directly to vital organs,” she told InStyle. “Women need to understand the real risks.”
Tragically, seven years after her first hospitalization, Lauren lost her second leg due to complications from the same condition. “My life changed in an instant. I couldn’t stand, let alone model. I felt like I lost myself. I even thought about ending my life,” she shared.
What ultimately saved her was the thought of her younger brother — the idea that he might find her if she gave up gave her the strength to keep going. That pivotal moment sparked a shift in her mindset. Instead of viewing her experience as an ending, Lauren decided to turn it into a mission.
She discovered that menstrual toxic shock syndrome had been affecting women for decades, often with devastating consequences. “I should still have my legs,” she said. “No woman should risk her life by using a tampon.” Determined to raise awareness, Lauren began speaking publicly about tSS and advocating for women’s health and safety.
Lauren’s resilience extended beyond advocacy. Drawing inspiration from rapper A$AP Rocky’s gold grills, she transformed her prosthetic legs into striking golden works of art. “Why not wear gold all the time?” she joked. Embracing her new reality, she refused to let her disability define her. Today, she runs, hikes, plays basketball, practices Pilates, and even starred in a global lingerie campaign. “There’s nothing I can’t do,” she says with a smile.
Her story carries a powerful message of strength, self-acceptance, and confidence: “Own who you are and step out boldly — even when it’s hard. Take control of your life, and you’ll inspire others to do the same.”
Lauren also credits her faith for keeping her grounded while acknowledging the importance of accepting one’s emotions. “Society tells us to always be happy, but it’s okay to feel what you feel,” she says. “Care less about what others think — you’re already enough.”
Now, Lauren Wasser is more than a survivor; she is a symbol of courage and a relentless advocate for women’s health. Her journey reminds the world that true beauty isn’t just physical — it is resilience, authenticity, and the strength to transform tragedy into purpose.
