Lauren Drain, born on December 31, 1985, in Tampa, Florida, is not just a registered nurse and fitness model; she is a remarkable individual who transformed her life after leaving the infamous Westboro Baptist Church. Her journey is one of resilience, personal growth, and the pursuit of happiness, culminating in her bestselling book, Banished, published in 2013.
Early Life and Connection to Westboro Baptist Church
Drain spent her early years in Bradenton, Florida, before relocating to Olathe, Kansas, with her father, Steve Drain, who became involved with the Westboro Baptist Church while producing a documentary critical of it. Steve’s conversion led his family into the church, where Lauren remained a member from 2001 until her excommunication in 2007. Her questioning of the church’s doctrines and her interactions with outsiders resulted in her banishment, leaving her estranged from her family, who remained loyal to the church.
After her excommunication, Lauren faced significant emotional challenges. She initially lived alone in Topeka, haunted by her past. In a surprising turn of events, her family was also excommunicated in 2020, and by 2023, Drain revealed in a YouTube video that she had re-established her relationship with them.
Education and Career in Nursing
Despite her tumultuous upbringing, Lauren found a way to carve out a successful career. She graduated from Topeka West High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Washburn University in 2007. Over the next nine years, she worked as a registered nurse, specializing in cardiac care and excelling in various roles within the healthcare system.
Transformation and Fitness Journey
Lauren’s journey toward fitness began as a personal endeavor to improve her self-image. In 2014, she participated in her first WBFF (World Beauty Fitness & Fashion) show, leading to a significant transformation. In just 14 weeks, she shed excess weight, showcasing her hard-earned muscle definition. This experience ignited her passion for fitness, leading her to become a personal trainer and fitness model.
She emphasizes that her fitness achievements are the result of determination and hard work, rather than genetic luck. Lauren’s journey resonates with many who have struggled with body image and self-acceptance. She has since shared her transformation story and the challenges she faced, inspiring others to overcome their obstacles.
Author and Advocate
Lauren’s book, Banished: Surviving My Years in the Westboro Baptist Church, co-authored with Lisa Pulitzer, became a New York Times Bestseller. In it, she recounts her experiences within the church, her eventual expulsion, and her journey to rebuild her life. Beyond writing, she has appeared on various media platforms, including CNN and MSNBC, to share her story and educate the public about the dangers of cults and the power of hate.
Personal Life
Lauren Drain has been married to David Kagan since August 2013. Together, they manage a fitness business while nurturing their personal relationship. In 2019, they announced they were expecting their first child, further enriching their life together.
Conclusion
Lauren Drain’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, self-discovery, and the pursuit of happiness. From her challenging beginnings in the Westboro Baptist Church to becoming a celebrated fitness model, nurse, and author, she embodies the idea that it is never too late to reclaim your life. Lauren continues to inspire countless individuals, reminding them that progress is possible, no matter how daunting the path may seem.
