Lauren Wasser, a brave and determined Californian model, experienced a life-changing event in 2012. Her right leg had to be amputated due to an unexpected and alarming reason.
You may be wondering, how could a basic hygiene product lead to such a nightmare? Well, Lauren’s tragic experience serves as a warning to all women out there. Recently, she underwent surgery to amputate her other leg.
Back in 2012, Lauren visited the hospital believing she had the flu, but her condition turned out to be something far more serious: toxic shock syndrome caused by bacterial toxins. This infection was triggered by the use of tampons, especially when left in for extended periods of time. The resulting condition is known as toxic shock syndrome, or TTS.
Lauren’s battle with TTS put her in a coma for over a week. Upon waking up, she was faced with the devastating decision to amputate her leg due to the infection. This life-altering event occurred when she was just 24 years old.
Since then, Lauren has made it her mission to ensure that no other woman suffers the same fate she did.
“In a few months, I will inevitably have my other leg amputated. It’s beyond my control. However, what I can do is raise awareness so that others don’t have to go through what I’ve experienced,” says Lauren, as she shares her story with The Daily Mail.
Lauren has taken legal action against Kotex Natural Balance, the tampon brand that caused her severe reaction. She emphasizes the importance of consumers understanding the potential risks associated with tampons, as the vagina is the most absorbent part of a woman’s body and leads to vital organs.
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Sadly, Lauren recently had to face the difficult decision to amputate her remaining leg.
In the moments following her surgery, this courageous model posted a photo on her social media accounts, alongside Paralympic athlete Amy Purdy who has also undergone amputations. With strength and optimism, Lauren shared the following message:
“Life is about to be so different, again! I’m in great spirits though and ready for my next chapter. ???♀️??♂️ // photo by my love *@camraface”
Lauren has my utmost respect for her unwavering determination. She continues to fight not only for herself, but for all women, so that no one else has to endure the pain she went through.
Please share Lauren’s story far and wide, so that every woman becomes aware of the potential dangers associated with tampons.