‘WE NEVER THOUGHT WE’D GET THIS NEWS’: FINAL UPDATE ON SYDNEY SHARK ATTACK SURVIVOR AS FAMILY CELEBRATES MIRACLE RECOVERY FAR SOONER THAN EXPECTED
Sydney shark attack victim Leah Stewart is no longer in a critical condition and has been able to see her child, her brother has announced in an update on her injuries.
Sydney mother Leah Stewart was mauled by a shark at Coogee Beach more than a week ago.
Stewart has undergone multiple surgeries since the attack. 9News
She has since had multiple surgeries, including an arm amputation.
In a statement on the online fundraiser for the 34-year-old that has raised more than $500,000, her brother Joshua Stuart confirmed that her condition has improved “much sooner than anyone expected”.
Full family statement
“Leah has been brought out from the heavy sedation and is now awake and alert and has been able to speak with our family and her medical team. It’s amazing to hear from her so much sooner than anyone expected. Both Leah and August were overjoyed last night to see each other for the first time since the attack (these last weeks were the first time they had ever been apart overnight).
“Leah has asked that we share her thanks and appreciation for everyone who has supported her through this difficult time, and her gratitude to the St. Vincent’s hospital doctors, nurses and support staff who continue to be so caring. Leah has seen some of the lovely messages we’ve received and looks forward to getting back to people when she can but doesn’t yet have the use of her hand (her remaining arm has severe tendon and nerve damage which will require further repair and intensive rehabilitation).
“In time Leah will want to share more of her story, she remembers the whole event in detail, but for now is focussed on resting and healing as her Doctors support her in pain management, tests, regaining some movement and preparing her for further surgeries tomorrow.
“Leah still has a long way to go, with an extensive recovery and rehabilitation process that will have her in and out of surgery through the coming weeks. Leah has shown she is so strong, fighting to come back to her Daughter August.
“Again a huge thank you to everyone for your messages of love and care, generosity, prayers and support.”
More to come.
SOURCE: https://www.nine.com.au/australia-news/nsw/coogee-beach-shark-attack-sydney-shark-attack-survivor-leah-stewart-releases-update-on-condition-20260625-p60a5y.html
