Maya Gebala, a 12-year-old girl who sustained severe injuries in a school shooting incident, is now receiving comprehensive financial and medical assistance from UFC CEO Dana White. Maya was among 27 individuals injured when a lone shooter tragically killed six people at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in British Columbia on February 10th.
Currently in critical care at Vancouver Children’s Hospital, Maya has already undergone multiple surgeries and faced various complications as a result of her injuries. Earlier this week, her family revealed that Dana White, upon learning of the situation, generously committed to covering all associated costs. This extensive support includes her ongoing medical expenses, as well as transportation to Los Angeles for specialized treatment at a top-tier hospital once her condition stabilizes, along with accommodation for her family during her recovery.
Cia Edmonds, Maya’s mother, shared an update on social media:
“Oh wow. So, today I got some good news (finally); the sample from her abscess has no cultures and also hasn’t grown in size. That’s a good sign that it’s potentially dead and just needs to be removed. So, today we had a meeting about finally leaving ICU! The first time anything has been said that ISN’T emotionally debilitating. I’m so incredibly proud of my baby girl. She is SUCH a fighter… so much that she was recognized as such, early on.”
“Some news we had waited to share (pending circumstances): After a week of being in the ICU, we were contacted by the president of the UFC, Dana White. He offered Maya full paid medical care in one of the world’s most top-tier hospitals in LA, California. Edit: He has also offered to pay for a place to stay. It’s incredible, really. I would have never thought this is where this would go. I’m finally excited to see her become the best version of who she can be through all this. For anyone who watches UFC, they put my babe’s name in the ring. Super cool.”
“The children’s hospital has an extensive brain trauma clinic and more resources. However, Maya hadn’t been stable enough to travel. Until now. Still tentative! Providing nothing serious happens between now and Monday, we may finally start looking towards a future for my girls… Stability and recovery. We can get a better look at what she may need in terms of care… wheelchairs, etc. It feels as though the air got lighter, and Maya has some light in her eyes… hope just got a little more brighter. My fighter… I always said her stubborn hard head will work well for her someday. My biggest baby girl – Livin’ on a prayer.”
