Australian woman grateful for “second chance at life” after shark attack
Leah Stewart, 35, suffered multiple shark bites at Sydney’s popular Coogee Beach and is now making the most of her recovery, thanks to an outpouring of support and medical care.
Leah was mauled by a shark during a morning swim at Coogee Beach in June, suffering multiple bites to her arms and legs, and endured significant surgeries, including an arm amputation.
She has been in an induced coma and has faced an uphill recovery. On Monday, she posted an online update where she thanked supporters who raised more than AU$550,000 for her, noting that her recovery has been “incredibly difficult” but she is making “remarkable” progress.
“After what has been an incredibly difficult few months, I'm so happy that I've progressed enough to build some independence, and I can finally see some light after all of this… I feel like I've been given a second chance at life, and I'm not going to waste it,” she wrote.
Stewart said she was “overwhelmed” by the support from family, friends and even strangers, and that the fundraiser was closed, funding her at-home recovery and future medical options.
Her gratitude comes amid a wave of shark attacks in Australia this year. In January, there were four attacks over two days, a boy as young as 12 died from his injuries. In May, a spearfisher in Queensland and a father of two in Western Australia were also victims.
For now, Leah remains hopeful and determined to honour the support she received, embracing her newfound independence and looking forward to life ahead.
