Australian Shark Victim Praises ‘Second Chance’ After Severe Attack

Leah Stewart, 34, was bitten by a shark during a morning swim at Coogee Beach in June, suffering multiple bites to her arms and legs amid a recent spike in Australian attacks.

She was immediately placed in an induced coma and underwent several surgeries, one of which led to the amputation of her right arm.

In an online post on Monday, Stewart thanked supporters who had raised over AU$550,000 (US$394,000; £289,000) for her. She described her recovery as “incredibly difficult” but also “remarkable” progress: “I am building independence and finally see light after all this.”

She added, “I feel like I’ve been given a second chance at life, and I will not waste it.” Stewart said the fundraising closed, but the money will allow her to recover at home and pursue future medical care.

In a forthcoming interview with Nine Network’s 60 Minutes, Stewart recounted witnessing the shark’s “horrific” face and how fear of losing her daughter spurred her to fight: “I couldn’t handle it; I had to fight to be here.”

Australia’s recent shark attacks are notable, with four incidents over two days in January and fatal cases in Queensland and Western Australia. Stewart’s story underscores the personal toll and collective response to the rising trend of shark encounters in Australian waters.

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