Mother's Heartbreaking Update on Tumbler Ridge Shooting Victim
In the intensive care unit at B.C. Children's Hospital in Vancouver, Cia Edmonds continues to sing and talk to her 12-year-old daughter, Maya Gebala, who remains in a medically induced coma one week after the devastating Tumbler Ridge school shooting. The mother posted an emotional update on February 17th, describing how she tells her daughter "how proud we are and that the entire world is cheering her on."
The Tragic Incident and Ongoing Recovery
Maya Gebala was shot while attempting to protect her classmates during the February 10th massacre at her Tumbler Ridge school. The young girl has been in critical condition since the tragedy unfolded, with medical professionals maintaining her in a medically induced coma to aid her recovery process. Edmonds expressed that "the gravity of what's happened has finally sunk in" as she maintains vigil at her daughter's bedside.
The mother shared her emotional turmoil on social media, writing: "I think I had a glimmer of hope that she might open her eyes... maybe she would recognize me. My baby is in there.. but how much is left. Time will only tell. My sweet Maya, I miss you. To the moon, and all the stars in the sky."
Community Support and Fundraising Efforts
An outpouring of community support has emerged for Maya and her family. A GoFundMe campaign created by her cousin, Krysta Hunt, has far surpassed its original $250,000 goal, raising an impressive $433,000 from more than 6,500 individual donations at the time of reporting. The fundraising page features Maya's hockey number, #14, above the hashtag #MayaStrong, symbolizing the community's solidarity with the young victim.
Maya's father, David Gebala, announced that the Coastal Tsunami junior hockey club will honor his daughter by wearing her #14 jersey for the remainder of the season. This tribute reflects Maya's passion for hockey, where she played defense for the U-13 Tumbler Ridge Raptors before the tragic incident.
Personal Details and Community Impact
Maya's Facebook page reveals glimpses of her life before the shooting, featuring photos of a kitten, a horse, a swimming hole, and friends. The 12-year-old was known as an avid hockey player within her community, with her athletic pursuits forming an important part of her identity.
The Tumbler Ridge tragedy has united politicians across party lines, with both Carney and Poilievre putting aside political differences to mourn with the devastated community. The incident has sparked broader conversations about school safety and youth protection while highlighting the resilience of small communities facing unimaginable trauma.
As Maya continues her fight for life in Vancouver's children's hospital, her family maintains hope while confronting the harsh realities of her critical condition. The medical team at B.C. Children's Hospital continues to provide specialized care, with the entire community anxiously awaiting positive developments in her recovery journey.
