A Sydney woman has awakened after being kept in a medically induced coma for several weeks following a severe shark attack that left her badly injured, requiring multiple surgeries including the amputation of one arm.
International news agencies reported that the family of Leah Stewart, who was bitten by a shark while swimming at a popular Sydney beach over a week ago, revealed she briefly regained consciousness after doctors reduced the sedative that had kept her in a coma.
Stewart, 34, was attacked by a shark on Saturday, 13 June, at Coogee Beach. She suffered multiple bite wounds on her arm and leg and experienced severe blood loss. She was rushed to hospital in critical condition and underwent several surgeries, including the amputation of her arm.
On Tuesday, her brother disclosed that doctors lowered her sedation to allow her to briefly wake up. The first words she spoke were “I love you” to her mother and partner at her bedside, and she asked if her daughter was safe.
“This happened much sooner than anyone expected. For us, it feels like a miracle and everything many of us have hoped and prayed for throughout the past week,” Joshua Stewart posted online to those who sent support for his sister.
Joshua said his sister remains in the intensive care unit, having undergone five consecutive days of surgery last week, with additional operations planned in the coming weeks.
“Leah still has a long road ahead and remains under critical care, but this is a very positive first step, giving us hope for her long-term recovery,” Joshua’s post stated.
This year, there have been numerous shark attacks in Australia, including four incidents in January alone within just two days. Among the victims was a young boy bitten at a Sydney beach who later died in hospital due to the severity of his injuries.
Additionally, in May, two fatal shark attacks occurred: one involving a man killed while spearfishing in Queensland, and another in Western Australia where a 38-year-old father of two lost his life.
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Source:bbc