What is more inspiring than the true-life story of a person who didn’t let obstacles prevent them from reaching their goals?
Lauren Wasser’s story is a classic underdog success story. In 2012, at age 24, Lauren suffered from toxic shock syndrome (TSS) and was on the verge of death. Doctors gave her just a 1% chance of survival, yet this diagnosis did not determine her future.
The American model suffered the amputation of both her legs after contracting the syndrome, caused by the use of a contaminated tampon, which led to a serious bacterial infection. If not found in her apartment on time and taken to the hospital, Lauren’s body would have stopped working all-together.
According to Texas Children’s Hospital, menstruation-related toxic shock syndrome continues to affect mainly adolescents and young women, especially due to the prolonged use of high absorption tampons. Doctors warn that the first symptoms can be confused with the flu, but evolve quickly while causing severe organ damage.
After the near-death experience, Lauren became an advocate for women’s health, pushing for transparency regulations in hygiene ingredients. The 2026 Met Gala consolidated her status as an icon of resilience by parading on the red carpet in a gold lamé suit designed by Prabal Gurung, inspired by the theme “Fashion Is Art.” Instead of hiding her golden prostheses, she made them part of the outfit, which gave her the nickname “the girl with the golden legs.”
Sources:
National Library of Medicine (NIH)
Texas Children’s Hospital
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