A mother had her arm amputated following an attack by a shark, prompting a swift outpouring of support that has raised over $270,000 (£142,000) in donations within a day. The incident occurred on June 13 while Leah Stewart was swimming near the shore at Coogee Beach, where she suffered severe injuries from multiple shark bites on her arms and legs, along with cuts, fractures, and significant blood loss.
The 35-year-old was attacked by a great white shark while her one-year-old daughter was nearby on the beach with a friend. Off-duty lifeguard Charlie Verco, 25, witnessed the attack from his paddleboard and bravely rescued Ms. Stewart by pulling her out of the water.
Describing the intense rescue, Verco recalled the bloody scene and how the shark eventually released its grip on Ms. Stewart. Despite her shock and inability to converse, she managed to ask for help as Verco brought her back to shore, where paramedics administered crucial blood transfusions.
Subsequently airlifted to St Vincent’s Hospital in critical condition, Ms. Stewart underwent multiple surgeries to address her life-threatening injuries, including the amputation of her arm. Her brother initiated a GoFundMe campaign to support her recovery, emphasizing the ongoing medical interventions required.
The fundraiser has garnered over $293,000 to aid Ms. Stewart’s rehabilitation efforts. Following the incident, authorities have temporarily authorized drone surveillance in the area to monitor shark activity, despite the absence of such monitoring during the attack due to flight path restrictions.
For those willing to contribute, donations can be made to the GoFundMe page established for Ms. Stewart.
