(UPDATE) Tumbler Ridge shooting victim moved into new ‘recovery section’ at hospital

Update, 12:40 p.m.: This story was updated to correctly identify the people involved. Energeticcity.ca is happy to set the record straight.

TUMBLER RIDGE, B.C. — A victim of the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School shooting is on her way to recovery. 

According to an update on a GoFundMe page set up for Maya Gebala posted on February 17th, her mother, Cia Edmonds, said that Gebala is moving into recovery. 

Gebala is one of the victims who was airlifted to BC Children’s Hospital in Vancouver after suffering gunshot wounds to her head and neck in the February 10th shooting. 

Eighteen-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar shot and killed eight people on February 10th at the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. 

Gebala’s GoFundMe page has raised $443,111 as of February 19th at 10.57 a.m. 

The page was launched by Edmonds’ cousin, Krysta Hunt, who said this page will support Gebala through her recovery and will allow Edmonds to be by her daughter’s side without financial concern. 

Edmonds, who has been sharing updates about Gebala’s recovery milestones on the page, said she “should be more optimistic” as Gebala is being “moved into a new section, one for recovery, instead of goodbyes.” 

In the update, she said: “This, to me, is acknowledgement that she is fighting and refuses to quit.” 

But, Edmonds added: “Still no movement on the right side. The doctors say it is similar to a stroke and will never come back.

“Just know that, the stories, the love, the support and admiration for our powerhouse of a girl is not lost. I see you. We feel you. Thank you.” 

Another update was shared by Gebala’s father, David Gebala, who said: “You went from not being able to move at all, to moving more and more each day. 

“And now, the nurses have adjusted your ventilator to pressure support because you’re taking your own breaths. What an amazing milestone.” 

Anyone who wants to send prayers, cards or well wishes can send them to Maya at Unit 304- 827 W, 16th Street, North Vancouver, BC V7P 1R2.

To donate to Maya’s GoFundMe page, click here.