Giving back to the ICU team who helped save her life
After spending 11 days in St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney’s Intensive Care Unit, Leah Stewart wanted to find a way to thank the team who had cared for her. Now, she is turning that gratitude into action, helping future patients access the equipment and technology they need when it matters most.
Leah has launched Leah’s Gift of Care, a fundraising campaign aiming to raise $100,000 for the latest ICU equipment and technology.
Following a shark attack at Coogee Beach in June 2026, Leah spent two months in hospital, including her first 11 days in ICU. As her recovery continues, she remains connected to St Vincent’s through several outpatient clinics.
Throughout that journey, the care she received from doctors, nurses and allied health professionals left a lasting impression. Leah approached St Vincent’s Curran Foundation with a wish to give back to the team who helped save her life.
Leah Stewart with her nurses as she visited ICU
“The dedicated team at St Vincent’s supported me through the toughest period of my life, and I’ll always be grateful. Fundraising is a way for me to turn that gratitude into action and help ensure future patients have access to the same exceptional care that I did,” Leah said.
Helping care for the next patient
For patients and families facing a critical illness or injury, access to specialised equipment and technology is an essential part of intensive care. Leah’s eight-week campaign will help St Vincent’s ICU continue delivering the highest quality lifesaving care.
A/Prof Hergen Buscher, Head of the Department of Intensive Care, welcomed Leah’s support and the difference it could make for patients and their families.
“As an intensive care doctor, I see every day how vital community support is for our patients and their families. Leah’s efforts send a powerful message of hope and solidarity to those facing some of the most challenging moments of their lives,” he said.
“Funds raised will allow us to acquire the specialised equipment and technology we need to ensure that we continue to provide world-class care.”
As an ambassador for St Vincent’s Curran Foundation’s broader ICU fundraising efforts, Leah is also helping raise awareness of the difference philanthropy can make.
Be part of Leah’s Gift of Care
By supporting Leah’s campaign, you can help provide the latest equipment and technology for the ICU team caring for patients through some of the most challenging moments of their lives.