Teacher regains consciousness after shark attack in Sydney

On June 13, 34-year-old teacher Lia Stewart was severely injured in a great white shark attack at Coogee Beach in Sydney. Following the incident, she underwent multiple surgeries, including the amputation of her hand, and was placed in a medically induced coma. After 10 days of mechanical ventilation and sedation, doctors successfully extubated her and reduced her medication. Stewart has since regained consciousness and was able to speak to her mother and partner. Her brother, Josh Stewart, reported that she inquired about the well-being of her one-year-old daughter upon waking. While medical staff note her recovery has progressed faster than expected, she remains in the intensive care unit in serious condition. Further surgeries are planned for her treatment. The event has prompted local authorities to increase shark surveillance at Sydney beaches.