Leah Stewart spent two months away from the public eye after a great white shark attacked her at Coogee Beach on June 13, leaving her in a medically induced coma and forcing the amputation of one of her arms.
SBS News reported that the 34-year-old Sydney mother broke her silence to share that she views her survival as a second chance at life.
Stewart was swimming between the flags close to the shore when the predator struck. Rushed to the hospital in critical condition, she underwent multiple surgeries before beginning a grueling rehabilitation process.
In a public update shared via her GoFundMe donation page, Stewart reflected on the community response that accompanied her recovery. She stated that she had progressed enough to build some independence and could finally see some light after the ordeal, crediting an army of love and prayers from around the world for keeping her grounded.
“You’ve inspired me to get better, not bitter,” Stewart wrote in her update. She added that she feels given a second chance at life and intends to make something of it by giving back in generosity, care, and love.
The online fundraiser established to support her recovery surpassed $558,000 in contributions. Stewart announced that she was turning off donations, noting that the community had provided enough financial stability to cover her recovery, allow her family to stay in their home, and fund future medical treatment.
Sydney has faced an unusual concentration of shark encounters over recent months. In January, the city recorded three attacks within a 48-hour window.
On January 18, 12-year-old Nico Antic suffered critical injuries from a suspected bull shark while swimming off rocks in Vaucluse in Sydney Harbour, later dying from his injuries.
The following day, 27-year-old Andre de Ruyter was attacked while surfing near Manly, resulting in extreme blood loss and the amputation of one of his legs. An 11-year-old boy also encountered a shark at Dee Why Beach on the same day, though his surfboard absorbed the bite and he escaped physical harm.
Following the June attack on Stewart, New South Wales Premier Chris Minns announced that his government would commit an additional $34 million to expand drone surveillance across regional and metropolitan beaches.
