Shark attack survivor wakes from 10-day coma and shares first words with family at her hospital bedside

Leah Stewart, a woman who survived a shark attack on Sydney's Coogee Beach, has woken from a 10-day induced coma. On Tuesday, she spoke her first words, "I love you," to her family at the hospital. Stewart, a mother and teacher in her mid-30s, was bitten on the legs and arms by a shark on June 13th and has undergone five surgeries, including an arm amputation. Her brother shared the update on a fundraising page, noting her immediate concern for her daughter. Doctors were able to bring her out of the coma after a week of life support and surgeries. While Stewart remains in critical care, her recovery is considered a significant positive step.

Leah Stewart, a 34-year-old mother and teacher, has woken briefly from an induced coma more than a week after a shark attack at Coogee Beach in Sydney. The attack, which occurred on Saturday, June 13, resulted in multiple bites to her arms and legs and significant blood loss. Stewart was taken to the hospital in critical condition and underwent several surgeries, including the amputation of one arm. Her brother reported that doctors reduced her medication, allowing her to briefly communicate with her mother and partner. While she remains in intensive care with a long recovery ahead, her family considers this awakening a positive and hopeful step.

Leah Stewart, a 34-year-old teacher, has awoken from a coma following a shark attack at Sydney's Coogee beach on June 13th. Ten days after the incident, she was extubated and briefly spoke, telling her mother and partner, "I love you." Stewart has undergone multiple surgeries, including an arm amputation, and remains in intensive care. The attack has prompted renewed discussions about shark safety, with NSW Premier Chris Minns announcing plans for "world-leading" shark drones to be deployed across more beaches. The Department of Primary Industries confirmed increased white shark detections along the NSW coast and stated that shark nets are scheduled for reinstallation in September. A fundraising page for Stewart has raised over $488,000.