Leah Stewart, 34, was swimming between the flags at Coogee Beach on June 13 when she was attacked by a shark. She sustained serious injuries to her arms and legs, significant blood loss, and fractures throughout her body.
Medical Response and Amputation
Due to the severity of her injuries, doctors later amputated one of her arms. Wounds contaminated with sand and debris caused an extreme risk of infection. Stewart has continued to fight, with doctors bringing her out of an induced coma as her condition improves.
Brother's Update on Recovery
On Sunday, Stewart's brother Joshua shared an update on her condition, revealing she has had trouble sleeping but is grateful for support from well-wishers across Australia and beyond. "Leah has had some challenging days but has found real strength from your kindness and support, and wanted to pass on a huge thank you to everyone who has shared her story, sent her uplifting messages and supported her," Joshua said on GoFundMe.
"Since the incident Leah has had difficulty sleeping, and on those nights she's been reading back through your messages, not only from her family and community in Australia and her whanau in New Zealand, but also from people all across the world. They've given her real comfort and strength."
Fundraising Success
The fundraiser has received over $540,000 in donations. Joshua said the family looks forward to "replying to all the really beautiful messages we've received." He added, "Leah is beyond overwhelmed at the amazing support she has received and that her story has resonated with so many people. Thank you."
Community Support
The shark attack at such a popular swimming beach rocked the local community, prompting a swim-out led by Coogee Surf Life Saving Club and Randwick City Council attended by over 1000 people, with thousands more gathering to show their support.
