Australian model Leah Ramsey reveals how a small cut led to open-heart surgery and the tragic loss of her baby
Australian model Leah Ramsey is sharing her harrowing experience after a minor foot injury led to a severe, misdiagnosed infection and subsequent open-heart surgery. The ordeal, which occurred while she was pregnant, resulted in the tragic loss of her baby and serves as a warning about the importance of medical self-advocacy.
Why it matters
The story underscores the dangers of misdiagnosed infections and the critical need for patients to persist when they feel their health concerns are being dismissed.
It started with a small cut on her foot but for Australian model Leah Ramsey the freak accident ended in unimaginable tragedy. The minor injury triggered a rare infection that was repeatedly misdiagnosed, ultimately leading to open-heart surgery while she was pregnant. After the devastating loss of her baby girl in June, Ramsey is bravely sharing her story to urge patients to speak up. Speaking to 7NEWS.com.au, the former Australia’s Next Top Model contestant said she hopes her experience serves as a warning about the importance of advocating for yourself to ensure you receive the right medical attention. In June 2025, Ramsey, who lives in Austin, Texas, with her husband Michael, was at home with their toddler, Reeves, when he broke a glass. “I was cleaning up the glass when it got wedged into the top of my left foot,” Ramsey told 7NEWS.com.au.
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