Leah Stewart, a 34-year-old teacher and accomplished local swimmer, has awoken from an induced coma after being attacked by a shark at Coogee Beach on June 13. She suffered multiple bites to her arms and legs, resulting in extreme blood loss, and underwent several life-saving procedures, including amputation of her left arm.
Recovery Progress
Leah's brother, Josh Stewart, shared updates on a GoFundMe page. In a Thursday update, he wrote: “She has continued to make progress over the past days, she has now been stabilized and is no longer critical. Leah has been brought out from the heavy sedation and is now awake and alert and has been able to speak with our family and her medical team. It’s amazing to hear from her so much sooner than anyone expected.”
This marked the first time Leah was able to see her daughter, August. Josh noted that Leah does not yet have use of her hand, explaining that “her remaining arm has severe tendon and nerve damage which will require further repair and intensive rehabilitation.” He also revealed that Leah “remembers the whole event in detail” and will share her story when she is ready.
Ongoing Treatment
The plan now focuses on resting and healing as she undergoes more tests, regains movement, and prepares for further surgeries. “Leah still has a long way to go, with an extensive recovery and rehabilitation process that will have her in and out of surgery through the coming weeks,” Josh added. “Leah has shown she is so strong, fighting to come back to her daughter August.”
In a previous update, Leah was able to tell her mother and partner Fernando “I love you” after being briefly brought out of the induced coma. Josh described this as “a miracle” and “everything so many of us have hoped and prayed for over the past week.”
Context of the Attack
Stewart was swimming close to the shore when the attack occurred. Hers was the latest shark attack in Australian waters, including two that happened last month—one killed a spearfisher in Queensland and another killed a father of two in western Australia.
