Australian shark attack victim grateful for 'second chance at life'

Leah Stewart, a 34-year-old Australian woman, is expressing her gratitude for a second chance at life after being bitten by a shark while swimming at Coogee Beach in June. The attack left her with multiple injuries, including bites to her arms and legs, and she underwent several surgeries, including the amputation of one of her arms.

In an online post, she thanked her supporters, who have raised over AU$550,000 (US$394,000; £289,000) for her recovery, saying she feels blessed to have progressed enough to regain some independence. Stewart described the shark's face as horrific and says she would never forget it. The shark attacks in Australia have been on the rise, with four attacks reported in a two-day period in January, including a fatal incident involving a 12-year-old boy.