A Sydney schoolteacher is facing a long road to recovery after surviving a devastating shark attack at one of Australia’s most popular beaches.
Leah Stewart, 35, was seriously injured while swimming at Coogee Beach in New South Wales on June 13 when she was attacked by what authorities believe was an approximately 11-foot great white shark. The incident occurred in calm, clear waters surprisingly close to the shoreline, shocking beachgoers and the local community.
The attack left Stewart with life-threatening injuries and severe blood loss. Doctors were forced to amputate one of her arms in an effort to save her life, and medical teams expect she will need additional operations in the coming days.
Speaking to The Guardian, her brother Joshua Stewart said the family is still waiting for further updates from doctors regarding the full extent of her injuries.
“Right now, we don’t have all the answers,” he explained. “There are several very serious injuries, and this has completely changed Leah’s life. It’s an incredibly tragic situation for our family.”
Family Awaits Further Medical Updates
Stewart remains in critical condition at St Vincent’s Hospital, where she is being supported by life-sustaining medical care. Doctors are continuing to assess injuries to her legs while monitoring her overall recovery.
As her loved ones cope with the aftermath of the attack, they have launched a fundraising campaign to help cover the significant costs associated with her treatment and rehabilitation. The campaign highlights the emotional toll the incident has taken on the family, particularly Stewart’s 18-month-old daughter, who has been asking about her mother.
In a message shared on the fundraiser page, relatives described their shock and heartbreak.
“We are devastated that something like this could happen to our beloved partner, daughter, and mother,” the family wrote. “Leah is a vibrant, energetic person, and our lives have been turned upside down.”
The statement also confirmed that she has undergone several surgeries since the attack and that more procedures are scheduled as doctors continue treating her injuries.
Lifeguard’s Courageous Rescue
A dramatic rescue unfolded moments after the shark attack, thanks to the quick actions of 24-year-old volunteer lifeguard Charlie Verco, who happened to be off duty and in the water at the time.
Verco recalled spotting the shark and immediately realizing its enormous size.
“I could clearly see its dorsal fin, tail, and body,” he said in comments reported by ABC. “It looked so large that I felt as though it could easily bite through both me and my surfboard.”
According to Verco, Stewart was dragged beneath the water during the attack. When she resurfaced, he rushed to help, pulling her onto his board before bringing her safely back to shore.
Despite her severe injuries, Stewart remained conscious long enough to communicate.
“She was able to say the word ‘help’ and respond to instructions,” Verco recalled. “But she was obviously in shock and extremely frightened.”
Community Support Grows
The family has expressed deep gratitude to everyone involved in Stewart’s rescue and ongoing care, including surf lifesavers, emergency responders, helicopter crews, and hospital staff.
They also thanked the many people who have reached out with messages of support, prayers, and donations during the difficult ordeal.
Funds raised through the campaign will help provide for Stewart’s future medical needs, including rehabilitation, prosthetic care, and ongoing support as she adjusts to life after the attack.
The family says every donation, regardless of size, will make a meaningful difference as Stewart works toward recovery and continues her role as a devoted mother to her young daughter.
While her future remains uncertain, loved ones remain hopeful that community support and continued medical care will help her rebuild her life after the traumatic incident.
