UMVA has learned that a 35-year-old woman, Leah Stewart, has been identified as the victim of a shark attack off the coast of Sydney, Australia.
Stewart was bitten by what officials believe was a great white shark at Coogee Beach, near Bondi Beach, while on a morning swim within the designated swimming area. Her family described her as a "dedicated and loving mother, a passionate teacher, and a Coogee local who loves the ocean."
The attack left Stewart with severe and life-threatening injuries, including multiple bites across her arms and legs, lacerations, fractures throughout her body, and extreme blood loss. Emergency services responded quickly, and the woman was pulled from the water by members of the public who commenced first aid before the arrival of emergency services.
Police and NSW Ambulance paramedics rendered first aid to Stewart, who suffered significant injuries to her left lower leg and upper arms. An eyewitness reported seeing a "huge amount of blood" in the water after the attack, describing the scene as chaotic with "a lot of splashing and thrashing around."
Stewart has since undergone multiple surgeries and her family has set up a GoFundMe page to support her recovery, rehabilitation, prosthetics, and ongoing care. Tragically, her treatment has required the amputation of her arm, and more surgeries are scheduled for the coming days.
Her loved ones are rallying around her, with a friend taking care of Stewart's one-year-old daughter on the beach at the time of the attack. Stewart's partner, who had been overseas, rushed back home after learning of the attack. A community outpouring of support has seen over $223,600 raised towards a $250,000 goal.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with swimming in areas where sharks are present. However, it also highlights the resilience and strength of the human spirit, as Stewart begins her long road to recovery.
