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Lauren Wasser, a Californian model, has become a beacon of strength and advocacy after enduring a life-altering experience. In 2012, at the age of 24, Lauren went from living a vibrant life to facing a shocking and traumatic health crisis that would change her life forever. What happened to Lauren was an unexpected consequence of a common household product, leading to menstrual toxic shock syndrome (mTSS)—a rare but serious condition caused by bacterial toxins.
Her journey, marked by incredible challenges and personal losses, has inspired countless people around the world. Today, Lauren uses her voice to warn others about the dangers of this syndrome, raise awareness about its risks, and advocate for women’s health and safety.
What is Menstrual Toxic Shock Syndrome (mTSS)?
Menstrual Toxic Shock Syndrome (mTSS) is a life-threatening condition that can occur when harmful bacteria, particularly Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes, release toxins into the bloodstream. While this condition is rare, it is most commonly associated with the use of tampons, particularly when left in for extended periods. The symptoms of mTSS can progress quickly and include high fever, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and organ failure.
For Lauren Wasser, it began with what seemed like flu symptoms. She went to the hospital in 2012, thinking she was just sick. Unfortunately, the diagnosis was far worse: mTSS caused by bacterial toxins linked to the use of a tampon. After spending more than a week in a coma, Lauren faced the unimaginable—her right leg had to be amputated due to the severity of the infection.
The Impact of mTSS: A Life-Changing Diagnosis
At 24 years old, Lauren Wasser’s world turned upside down. What started as a simple infection escalated quickly, leading to organ failure, multiple heart attacks, and a life-threatening situation where she was given only a 1% chance of survival.
Once she regained consciousness, the reality set in. She had lost her right leg due to the infection. Over time, Lauren would go on to lose her left leg as well, a devastating consequence of mTSS. But instead of succumbing to despair, she found strength in the face of overwhelming adversity.
The Fight for Awareness: No Woman Should Suffer in Silence
Lauren Wasser’s journey didn’t end with the loss of her legs. Instead, it sparked a legal battle against the tampon brand Kotex Natural Balance, which she claimed was responsible for the severe reaction she experienced. The legal fight was part of a larger mission: to raise awareness about the potential dangers of tampons, which many women use every day without realizing the risks involved.
Lauren explained to Harper’s Bazaar:
“I had been using the same product I always used, following the instructions on the box, just like all women do. But on that particular day, the toxins took over my body, and I nearly died. I had a fever of 42°C, my kidneys began to fail, and I suffered two heart attacks.”
Her experience led her to realize that mTSS had been claiming women’s lives for years, often in silence. She became determined to speak out not just for herself but for the many women who have suffered from similar health issues, sometimes without even knowing the potential dangers they face.
Overcoming Trauma: A New Purpose and Resilience
Despite facing extreme trauma and personal loss, Lauren’s resilience became the driving force behind her advocacy. In the darkest moments of her recovery, she contemplated suicide, feeling like she had lost everything. However, a powerful thought kept her going: her younger brother. She couldn’t bear the idea of him finding her in such a vulnerable state.
Eventually, Lauren shifted her mindset. Rather than seeing her struggle as a defeat, she began to view it as a challenge to overcome. Over time, she found a greater sense of purpose—using her voice to warn others and help prevent similar tragedies.
Lauren’s new perspective led her to embrace her reality, even finding strength in her prosthetic legs. Inspired by A$AP Rocky’s custom gold grills, she had her prosthetics cast in gold, turning them into a form of art and empowerment. Today, she lives a full, unapologetic life. She runs five miles a day, hikes with her dog, plays basketball, and even models for global lingerie campaigns.
Spreading a Message of Strength: “Own Who You Are”
Lauren Wasser’s message is clear: life will always present challenges, but resilience and self-empowerment are the keys to overcoming them. Her journey has transformed her into a symbol of strength, and her story inspires others to find their inner strength, even in the face of adversity.
Lauren encourages others to accept themselves as they are and to own their story. She believes that every person has the ability to face hardships and rise above them, offering hope and motivation to anyone facing a difficult journey.
Her words resonate deeply:
“Own who you are, and walk out that door every day with a smile—even if you don’t feel like it. Take control of your life, and you’ll inspire others to do the same.”
Lauren’s Impact on Women’s Health Advocacy
Through her advocacy work, Lauren Wasser has brought menstrual toxic shock syndrome to the forefront of women’s health discussions. She has used her personal experience to encourage women to be more aware of the potential risks associated with products like tampons. By sharing her story, Lauren hopes to ensure that no woman ever has to suffer in silence again.
She also advocates for better education and awareness regarding menstrual health and the importance of listening to your body. Proper hygiene and caution when using menstrual products can help prevent dangerous infections like mTSS, and Lauren’s efforts aim to raise awareness to prevent future cases.
Conclusion: A Call to Action for Women’s Health
Lauren Wasser’s story is one of survival, strength, and transformation. She has turned her personal tragedy into a powerful advocacy for women’s health and safety. By sharing her experience, she aims to prevent others from going through the same ordeal and raise awareness about the dangers of menstrual toxic shock syndrome (mTSS).
Her message is one of empowerment—reminding us all to own who we are, face our challenges head-on, and never let setbacks define us. Lauren’s courage and resilience inspire women everywhere to take control of their health and well-being and to support each other in the face of adversity.
If you or someone you know has experienced health issues related to menstrual products, remember that knowledge is power. Stay informed, and share this message to ensure no one else faces the same struggles that Lauren did.
