Shark Attack Survivor Wakes from Coma

A woman who spent ten days in a coma following a shark attack on a Sydney beach has spoken her first words this week. Leah Stewart emerged from her coma on Tuesday, managing to express her love for her family, particularly saying “I love you,” as noted by her brother on a fundraising page.

After a week on life support, doctors reduced Stewart’s sedation, allowing her to regain consciousness. Her brother shared that her immediate concern was for her daughter, August, inquiring about her well-being.

Stewart, a mother and teacher in her mid-30s, has already undergone five surgeries, including losing an arm. She sustained injuries to her leg and arm from the shark while swimming at Coogee Beach on June 13. Following the attack, she was airlifted to the hospital in critical condition.

The Sydney Morning Herald indicated that Stewart was attacked near the shore, while a friend looked after her daughter on the beach. Her brother expressed relief at her recovery, stating this unexpected progress feels like a miracle after so many prayers and hopes throughout the week.

He acknowledged, however, that there is still a long recovery journey ahead for Leah, as she continues to receive crucial treatment. Her situation follows a series of shark attacks in Australia, including incidents that resulted in fatalities since May.