Lauren Wasser, an emerging model from California, faced a life-changing crisis at just 24 when she was diagnosed with menstrual toxic shock syndrome (mTSS) after using a tampon. What started as flu-like symptoms quickly escalated into a critical medical emergency, leaving her in a coma for a week with only a one-percent chance of survival. Although she fought to live, the infection led to the amputation of her right leg.
After seven years of adjusting to life with a prosthetic leg, Lauren experienced another heartbreaking setback when she needed a second amputation, this time of her left leg. In her darkest moments, she considered ending her life, but the thought of her younger brother gave her the strength to keep going. This reflection inspired a renewed sense of purpose, driving her to advocate for menstrual product safety and raise awareness about the risks of mTSS.
Today, Lauren has transformed her pain into empowerment, becoming a worldwide activist for safe period products. She redefines beauty by embracing her prosthetic legs, which she often decorates in gold, symbolizing strength and individuality. Living boldly, she runs, hikes, and models, inspiring others with her resilience and confidence.
Lauren’s message to women is simple yet powerful: “Own who you are.” She stresses the importance of self-acceptance and awareness, encouraging women to focus on themselves rather than societal pressures. Through her advocacy, she hopes to prevent others from suffering the same fate, reminding everyone that awareness can save lives.
As her influence has grown, Lauren has become a beacon of hope for women facing seemingly insurmountable challenges. She collaborates with organizations dedicated to health education and safer product standards, helping to equip future generations with the knowledge to make safer choices. Her work has led to legislative changes and sparked global conversations about the need for improved menstrual product safety.
Beyond advocacy, Lauren finds joy in empowering others to discover their own inner strength. She frequently speaks to young women, encouraging them to embrace their uniqueness and face their struggles head-on. Her journey proves that resilience means not just surviving adversity, but thriving in spite of it.
Lauren’s life exemplifies that true beauty lies not in perfection, but in overcoming obstacles with grace. She continues to break barriers in the modeling industry, showing that disability does not define a person’s value. Her ongoing mission is to leave a legacy where every woman recognizes her worth and where the fight for safety and awareness empowers generations to come.
