Model Lauren Wasser’s Battle with Toxic Shock Syndrome. 35-year-old model Lauren Wasser nearly died from Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), a rare but life-threatening condition caused by a tampon. At age 24, she developed flu-like symptoms that escalated into a heart attack, organ failure, and gangrene, ultimately leading to the amputation of both legs.
Her life was saved thanks to a wellness check by her mother, but the trauma was life-changing. She spent months in a wheelchair and battled depression. Although her left leg was initially saved, she later chose to amputate it due to ongoing pain.