Leah Stewart Closes $558,000 Fundraiser After June 13 Shark Attack, Recounting Great White Ordeal
Updated
Updated · Sydney Morning Herald · Aug 24
Leah Stewart Closes $558,000 Fundraiser After June 13 Shark Attack, Recounting Great White Ordeal
1 articles · Updated · Sydney Morning Herald · Aug 24
Summary
Leah Stewart said she has shut her family’s online fundraiser after it raised more than $558,000, saying the support was enough to help cover recovery, keep the family in their home and preserve options for future treatment.
The 34-year-old Sydney mother made the announcement as she gave her first public interview since the June 13 attack at Coogee Beach, describing a great white shark gripping her leg and saying she feared her 18-month-old daughter would grow up without a mother.
Stewart spent two weeks in a coma and underwent several surgeries, including an arm amputation, after the attack; the upcoming 60 Minutes segment will also air the Triple Zero call reporting blood in the water.
The attack fueled debate in New South Wales over beach safety and helped prompt Premier Chris Minns to boost funding for shark surveillance.