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Leah Stewart, an Australian mother and teacher who lost her arm following a shark attack at Sydney’s Coogee Beach, has been finding solace in heartfelt messages from supporters worldwide as she navigates her recovery. Her family shared that Leah, now awake from a medically induced coma, has drawn inspiration from the outpouring of care she’s received, her brother Joshua Stewart confirmed in a GoFundMe update.
“We’ve been sharing some of the beautiful messages we’ve received with Leah,” Joshua wrote. “She’s loved them, finding strength and hope in the love and kindness you’ve all shown.” He emphasized how these words have comforted Leah during sleepless nights and difficult days, noting the global reach of her story—from her local community in Australia to her whānau in New Zealand, and far beyond.
Leah’s recovery has been complex: she endured multiple life-threatening injuries, including fractures, lacerations, and extreme blood loss. After a 10-day coma, she awoke and briefly communicated her first words to her partner, Fernando, and mother—“I love you.” Her brother stated that her initial thoughts were of her 1-year-old daughter, August, underscoring her resilience and maternal focus amid adversity.
The shark attack occurred on June 13 when Leah was swimming near the shore within designated safety zones. Emergency services, lifeguards, and St. Vincent’s Hospital staff played critical roles in her immediate care. She underwent multiple surgeries, and her family confirmed additional procedures are planned to stabilize her condition and prepare for prosthetics and rehabilitation.
The GoFundMe campaign launched to support Leah, her partner, and daughter during this crisis aims to cover medical expenses, prosthetics, therapy, and long-term care. Joshua acknowledged delays in responding to supporters due to platform issues but stressed Leah’s gratitude: “She’s overwhelmed by the global response—thank you all.” Testimonies from lifesavers, first responders, and hospital staff were highlighted as vital to her survival.
Joshua concluded the update by describing Leah’s vivacious personality: “Our beloved partner, daughter, and mother—so full of life and energy—deserves every opportunity to heal and rebuild.”
