Shark Attack Survivor Achieves Hair-Plaiting Milestone Four Months After Losing Arm

Leah Stewart, a teacher and mother of one, has reached a significant milestone in her recovery nearly four months after a shark attack at Sydney's Coogee Beach resulted in the amputation of her arm below the elbow. Stewart, 35, shared an emotional update revealing she has successfully braided her own hair after numerous attempts.

Stewart was swimming at Coogee Beach on June 13 when she was attacked. She spent two weeks in a coma and underwent multiple surgeries. Until recently, she relied on her partner, Fernando, to help with tasks like braiding her hair and brushing her teeth.

"I didn't think I would be able to do this. I had honestly given up on doing hair," Stewart said in a video, showcasing her achievement. "I have managed a plait! I am so happy - and I tied it myself." She challenged others to attempt the task with one hand to understand its difficulty.

Stewart recently returned to Coogee Beach to address locals participating in a community swim. She spoke about raising awareness, improving safety measures, and implementing infrastructure to help people regain confidence in the water. "To the community that has absolutely stood up and stepped up in supporting me this far, I'm so thankful to be part of what has demonstrated what is the very best on human spirit," she told the crowd.

An avid ocean swimmer prior to the attack, Stewart expressed a desire to eventually return to the water. She previously stated that her return might depend on the presence of drones and shark nets.