Shark Attack Survivor Fights Back Against Great White

Leah Stewart recounted her terrifying ordeal of being attacked by a four-meter great white shark at Coogee Beach, an event from earlier this year. She described her fight for survival as she was dragged underwater, experiencing significant blood loss and losing her arm below the elbow. World champion paddleboarder Charlie Verco, training nearby, witnessed the attack and immediately paddled to assist Stewart, helping her towards the shore. Surf lifesaver Ben Heenan also joined the rescue efforts, bringing Stewart to safety on the sand.

Paramedic Kassandra McGregor and trauma specialist Ian Ferguson provided critical immediate care. Due to Stewart's severe blood loss, Ferguson resorted to drilling into her bone marrow to administer fluids and blood. She was then rushed to St. Vincent's Hospital, where emergency specialist Nikki Woods and surgeon Kim Isaacs worked to stabilize her before extensive surgery. Stewart remained in an induced coma for ten days following multiple operations. She is now undergoing extensive rehabilitation, focusing on regaining mobility in her severely injured right hand and learning to walk again, demonstrating remarkable resilience.