Lauren Wasser, a prominent figure in the fashion industry, has overcome tremendous challenges to become a model and activist. Despite losing both her legs to Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) from a tampon in 2012, Wasser refused to let it define her. Today, she uses her platform to raise awareness about the dangers of TSS and the need for improved menstrual product regulation, becoming a vocal advocate for women’s health and safety.
A Natural Affinity for Fashion
Lauren Wasser was born on March 2, 1988, in California, into a family of models. Her parents both worked in the industry, and her debut in Vogue at just 4 months old hinted at her innate connection to fashion. Growing up, she enjoyed an active and vibrant life, excelling as a basketball player and even earning a prestigious athletic scholarship. Eventually, she pursued a career in modeling while continuing to lead an active lifestyle.
A Traumatic Journey
At the age of 24, Wasser’s life took a drastic turn when she fell seriously ill due to TSS. This rare syndrome is caused by an excessive growth of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, which produces a lethal toxin in the bloodstream. TSS gained widespread recognition in the late 1970s when numerous young women fell ill. Symptoms start with flu-like signs and progress to renal failure and even heart attacks. Wasser’s condition was so severe that she had to be put into a coma for her survival.
After waking up from the coma, Wasser faced the reality of having lost her legs. Gangrene had set in, resulting in the amputation of her right leg. In 2018, she encountered another setback when her left leg also had to be amputated.
Raising Awareness and Promoting Safer Menstrual Products
Wasser has become a champion for TSS awareness and the promotion of safer menstrual products. She emphasizes that tampons, which are made using chlorine bleach, dioxin, and synthetic fibers, have detrimental effects on our bodies. Teaming up with Madeline Mosby, a mother who lost her teenage daughter to TSS, Wasser aims to bring about change.
The Girl with the Golden Legs
Despite her challenges, Wasser made an impressive comeback in the modeling world. She earned the nickname “the girl with the golden legs” for her choice of gold-toned prosthetics, fully embracing her new condition. Wasser’s resilience and determination earned her the respect and support of her peers.
Embracing an Active Life and Advocating for Inclusivity
Currently, Lauren Wasser continues to make waves in the fashion industry while advocating for greater inclusivity. After the amputation of her left leg, she has returned to her passion for basketball and is even training for an upcoming marathon. Her modeling career is thriving, with appearances for renowned brands like Gabriela Hearst and Louis Vuitton in 2022. Wasser’s journey inspires others to embrace their uniqueness and diversity in the fashion realm.
Apart from her successful modeling journey, Wasser remains committed to championing inclusivity and embracing people with disabilities and diverse backgrounds. Her advocacy and contributions to the fashion industry have earned her a well-deserved place on Harper’s Bazaar’s 2022 Women of the Year special edition covers, where she stands alongside other remarkable women.
Lauren Wasser’s extraordinary resilience and advocacy serve as an inspiration to all, reminding us that strength can be found even in the face of adversity.
