Shocking TRUE Story: “I Lost Both Of My Legs Because Of A Tampon” (Health Warning) - Lauren Wasser

Lauren initially experienced flu-like symptoms including feeling very sick, extreme heat, and a 107-degree fever. It was misdiagnosed as the flu because TSS symptoms are vague and doctors don't immediately connect them to tampon use, partly due to a lack of awareness and a history of misdiagnosis.

After Lauren was rushed to St. John's hospital, a fortunate infectious disease doctor, who happened to be on call, asked if she had a tampon in. Once located and sent to the lab, it confirmed TSS Level 1, allowing doctors to stabilize her.

Lauren suffered two heart attacks, kidney and organ failure, and her feet began turning black. Doctors had to put her on life support with a 1% chance of survival. The damage to her lower extremities was irreversible due to blood prioritization to vital organs.

Lauren overheard the amputation decision, leading to profound shock and screaming. Post-surgery, she was denied pain medication for 24 hours due to heart complications, causing her to feel every agonizing sensation of the amputation, which she describes as an unimaginable trauma.

Lauren experienced severe depression, suicidal thoughts, and anger, feeling her life was over. She struggled with the inaccessibility of the world for people with disabilities and felt ashamed, often hiding from others.

Seven years after her first amputation, Lauren decided to amputate her left leg because of persistent, excruciating pain and severe damage that prevented her from living an active life. She realized keeping the leg was holding her back from freedom and her true self.

Losing her second leg brought Lauren a sense of freedom. She embraced her identity, choosing distinctive 'golden legs' inspired by ASAP Rocky's 'golden grill'. This highly visible choice transformed her shame into a statement of ownership and pride.

Lauren is actively campaigning for ingredient transparency and safety testing in feminine hygiene products. She works with Madeline Masavi, a mother who lost her daughter to TSS, to reintroduce bills like the Robin Danielson Act to Congress, demanding accountability and change from manufacturers.

Lauren states that 'there is actually nothing on the market for women that is safe for us'. Even organic tampons are sprayed with pesticides, and products like menstrual cups can still cause TSS. She emphasizes that women are left with limited options that carry inherent risks.

Lauren urges young girls and women to be aware and educate themselves about the chemicals in feminine hygiene products. She warns against assuming 'it can't happen to you' and stresses the importance of reading labels and understanding the potential risks, as no one is off limits from TSS.

Lauren aims for a future where women are protected by safe feminine hygiene products that will not kill them. She envisions a world where her voice has led to fundamental change, ensuring no other person has to endure the trauma she experienced.