A prayer vigil was held last night for Adventist teacher Leah Stewart who was attacked by a shark at Sydney’s Coogee Beach on June 13.
The vigil was held at Castle Hill Adventist Church, where supporters gathered in small groups to pray for Ms Stewart and her family.
Ms Stewart, a teacher at Hurstville Adventist School, remains in a critical condition in St Vincent’s Hospital after suffering life-threatening injuries in the attack.
The mother of a one-year-old daughter has undergone several surgeries. As part of her treatment, one of her arms was amputated. Further surgeries are expected in coming days.
The incident occurred during a morning swim at Coogee Beach. Ms Stewart was pulled from the water by a lifeguard and assisted by an off-duty doctor and emergency personnel before being transported to hospital.
In the days since the attack, church members, colleagues and friends have rallied around Ms Stewart and her family, with many sharing messages of support and prayer. A fundraising campaign has also been launched to assist with her ongoing medical care, rehabilitation and recovery.
Writing on the GoFundMe page, Ms Stewart’s brother Josh described the family’s shock and grief.
“Leah is a dedicated and loving mother, a passionate teacher and a Coogee local who loves the ocean,” he wrote.
“As a family we are shocked and devastated that this could happen to our beloved partner, daughter and mother who is so full of life and energy.
“Leah faces a long road to recovery and your support will make a huge difference in her quality of life, rehabilitation and ability to go back to being a mum to her much loved one-year-old daughter.”
In a statement, Hurstville Adventist School said Ms Stewart is a much-loved teacher and valued member of the school community.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Leah and her family,” the statement said. “We are providing support to our students, staff and the wider school community.”
Donations to the GoFundMe campaign can be made via this link.
