Coogee mother and teacher fights for life after horrific great white attack

A 35-year-old Leah Stewart, a loving mother and local teacher whose baby was on the beach, is on life support after a great white shark mauled her while she swam about 100 feet from shore off Coogee Beach, Sydney. She suffered severe injuries and lost an arm; doctors amputated the limb and her condition remains critical as first responders stabilized her and she was airlifted to St. Vincent’s Hospital. An off-duty lifeguard pulled her from the water, and a on-scene critical-care doctor assisted with care. Stewart, who has a 1-year-old daughter, is described by family as devoted and energetic; a GoFundMe page has been set up to cover medical expenses. She recently participated in long-distance swims for charity. Australia has seen a recent uptick in shark incidents, with several fatal attacks reported this year.