Sydney Woman Awakens Briefly From Induced Coma After Shark Attack

Leah Stewart, aged 34, was attacked by a shark on 13 June while swimming at Sydney’s Coogee Beach. The incident left her with multiple deep bites to her arms and legs, severe blood loss and an arm that was ultimately amputated in emergency surgery.

She was taken to hospital in a critical state and had undergone five days of surgery. For more than a week she remained in an induced coma, surrounded by a dedicated ICU team.

On Tuesday, her family said doctors reduced the sedative meds, allowing her to open her eyes and whisper “I love you” to her mother and partner who were at her bedside. The brief awakening was described as a “miracle” by her brother, Joshua, in a message posted to social media.

Despite the emotional relief, Stewart’s condition is still critical. Doctors plan to perform further surgeries over the coming weeks to address ongoing complications from the bite wounds and to support her recovery.

The attack is part of a spate of shark incidents recently recorded across Australia. In January alone, four attacks occurred within a two‑day span, and there have been several fatal cases this year including a boy in Sydney and a 38‑year‑old man in Queensland.

The community in Coogee and beyond is closely monitoring the situation. Authorities have issued warnings about balancing beach recreation with marine safety, while scientists investigate the rise in shark activity near popular Australian beaches.

As Leah continues her intensive care journey, her family remains hopeful. She has expressed gratitude for the support received over the past week and hopes for a full recovery.