Leah Stewart’s recovery has suffered a setback after the shark attack survivor said her second skin graft failed.
The Sydney mother and teacher shared the news in a September 22 Instagram update, more than three months after the June 13 attack at Coogee Beach. Her injuries required multiple operations, including the amputation of an arm.
Second Graft Did Not Heal as Hoped
Stewart said a medical check confirmed that the latest attempt to close her injured leg wound had been unsuccessful, according to 7NEWS.
“I had my graft checked yesterday and it was confirmed that it failed,” she said.
She described feeling devastated and uncertain about the next steps. Her leg wound remains open despite months of treatment.
Stewart had previously shared her hopes that the second graft would help close the wound.
A Change in Wound Care
Stewart said her treatment approach was changing and that she was taking a break from the portable wound-care device she had been using.
She said being temporarily free of the machine allowed her to move more easily. Her update did not explain why the graft failed or confirm another procedure.
Despite the disappointment, she ended with a brief message of determination: “Anyway, we keep moving forward.”
Months of Recovery After Coogee Attack
Stewart was swimming near shore and between the flags when the shark attacked. Emergency crews took her to St Vincent’s Hospital in critical condition.
According to ABC News, she suffered injuries to her arms and leg, fractures and severe blood loss. Doctors placed her in an induced coma, and she underwent multiple surgeries.
In August, Stewart said she had begun regaining independence, although her recovery remained ongoing.
Community Support Helped Her Family
Supporters raised more than A$500,000 for Stewart and her family, ABC reported in August.
At that time, she asked for donations to stop, saying the support had given the family enough to remain in their home, focus on recovery and consider future medical treatment.
She thanked those who had helped and described their encouragement as a source of strength throughout her rehabilitation.