Leah Stewart, a 34-year-old mother who was mauled by a great white shark at Coogee Beach on June 13, is no longer in critical condition and has begun speaking "so much sooner than expected," according to her family.
Patient Stable and Alert After Heavy Sedation
In an update on Thursday, her brother Joshua confirmed that Stewart has been brought out of heavy sedation and is now stable, awake, and alert. "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," he wrote. "It's amazing to hear from her so much sooner than anyone expected."
Reunited with Daughter
Joshua said that Leah and her one-year-old daughter, August, were "overjoyed" to see each other for the first time since the attack on Wednesday night. The time apart marked the first nights they had ever spent away from one another. The teacher expressed gratitude to everyone who supported her, particularly the staff at St Vincent's Hospital.
Long Road to Recovery Ahead
While Stewart is recovering, her family noted that she still faces a long road ahead. One of her arms had to be amputated, and her remaining arm suffered severe tendon and nerve damage, requiring further surgery and intensive rehabilitation. She is due to undergo more surgery on Friday and is focused on resting and healing.
Remembering the Attack in Detail
Joshua shared that Stewart remembers the entire event in detail but is currently concentrating on recovery. "Leah has shown she is so strong, fighting to come back to her daughter August," he said. The family thanked the public for messages of love, generosity, and support.
Attack Details and Public Support
Stewart was swimming between the flags at Coogee Beach with two friends when she was bitten on her arms and legs. One arm required amputation, and wounds contaminated with sand and debris posed an extreme infection risk. A GoFundMe page has raised more than $500,000 to support her recovery.
