Lauren Wasser’s story is one of unimaginable tragedy and incredible resilience. At the age of 24, Lauren was living an active, fulfilling life, modeling and playing basketball. However, in 2012, her life took a dramatic turn when she developed toxic shock syndrome (TSS) after using a tampon—a product millions of women use daily without incident.
Despite using the tampon correctly, changing it every four hours as recommended, Lauren’s life was forever altered by this rare but severe bacterial infection.
Lauren’s symptoms began with what she believed was the flu. She felt unwell, experiencing a high fever, headaches, and body aches. However, her condition rapidly deteriorated. On the night of October 3, 2012, Lauren collapsed in her apartment. When paramedics arrived, her condition was dire—she had suffered two heart attacks and her organs were failing.
She was rushed to the hospital, where doctors fought to save her life. It was only after extensive testing that the cause of her illness was identified: toxic shock syndrome, a condition caused by the release of toxins from an overgrowth of Staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria, which can be associated with tampon use.
TSS is rare, but it can be fatal if not treated promptly. It was once more common in the 1980s when highly absorbent tampons were on the market. After those were taken off the shelves, cases decreased significantly. However, as Lauren’s story illustrates, the risk, though small, still exists.
Lauren was placed in a medically induced coma, and doctors informed her family that she had a 1% chance of survival. Her condition was so severe that the tissue in her legs began to die due to gangrene, a result of the lack of blood flow. After a series of consultations and the realization that her legs could not be saved, doctors amputated her right leg below the knee. Soon after, she lost her left leg as well.
Waking up to this new reality was devastating for Lauren. She had lost both her legs, and with them, her sense of identity as an athlete and a model. However, instead of allowing this tragedy to define her, Lauren chose to redefine herself. She was determined to walk again, and after months of rehabilitation and learning to use prosthetics, Lauren not only regained her mobility but also returned to modeling, defying all odds.
Lauren’s journey of recovery was not just physical but emotional and psychological as well. She had to come to terms with her new body and face the world in a completely different way. Yet, through it all, she has maintained a positive outlook, using her story as a platform to advocate for change.
Lauren has become a vocal advocate for menstrual health and the dangers of TSS. She works to raise awareness about the risks associated with tampon use, particularly the lack of education and transparency from companies regarding these risks.
In interviews, Lauren has spoken about the lack of warnings on tampon packaging and the need for better education for young women about TSS. She emphasizes that while TSS is rare, it is important to be aware of the symptoms and to seek medical help immediately if they occur. She also advocates for alternative menstrual products, such as menstrual cups and organic cotton tampons, which are believed to carry a lower risk of TSS.
Today, Lauren is not only a survivor but a role model. She has returned to modeling, walking runways and appearing in major fashion campaigns, challenging the industry’s standards of beauty. Her story is one of resilience, strength, and the power of the human spirit to overcome even the most devastating of circumstances.
Lauren’s experience is a stark reminder of the risks associated with tampon use, even when used correctly. It underscores the importance of education, awareness, and advocacy in ensuring that women are informed about the products they use and the potential dangers they may pose. Through her advocacy, Lauren continues to inspire others, turning her pain into a purpose that goes beyond her personal story to impact the lives of many others.