Tumbler Ridge Shooting Survivor Maya Gebala Receives 'Brain Holiday' Treatment
Neurosurgeons at the BC Children's Hospital are providing Tumbler Ridge shooting victim Maya Gebala with a unique medical intervention referred to as a "brain holiday," according to her father, David Gebala. This approach involves the removal of a drain from her skull, aimed at allowing her brain to rest while simultaneously reducing the risk of infection.
Medical Progress and Surgical Decisions
David Gebala reported on social media that the neurosurgical team communicated with him on Monday, expressing satisfaction with the results from the drain in Maya's head. He noted that there has been "virtually no" cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) coming from the drain, which is a positive sign. A buildup of CSF could indicate brain swelling and pressure, potentially leading to damage to brain tissue.
With this in mind, the decision was made to remove the drain. The neurosurgeons explained that this procedure gives Maya what they call a "brain holiday," enabling her brain some time to recuperate while also minimizing infection risks.
Additionally, the medical team is planning surgery to implant a synthetic skull prosthetic as part of efforts to rebuild her damaged skull. However, based on ultrasound tests conducted in the operating room, surgeons may determine that she does not require this implant at all.
Recovery Milestones and Family Updates
On a recent Saturday, Maya enjoyed a brief outdoor moment, being brought to a hospital patio for about 20 minutes of fresh air and sunshine. Her father described this as a beautiful and uplifting experience during her recovery journey.
Maya Gebala was critically injured in the February 10 shooting rampage in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, perpetrated by Jesse Van Rootselaar. She was shot twice—once in the neck and once in the head—and was one of two students airlifted to hospital following the incident, which resulted in nine fatalities and 27 injuries.
Her recovery has been gradual, with reports from her parents, Cia Edmonds and David Gebala, indicating that she has opened her right eye and shown movement in her right hand and leg. Updates are shared regularly on social media and through a GoFundMe page organized by her cousin, Krysta Hunt.
Overwhelming Support and Community Response
The family has expressed immense gratitude for the outpouring of support and love from the community. Cia Edmonds mentioned on Facebook that they have received over 1,500 envelopes of well-wishes, arriving in large quantities daily, making it challenging to process them all. She kindly requested supporters to hold their sentiments in their hearts due to the volume.
Canadian NHL teams have also shown vocal support for Maya's recovery. As an avid hockey player who wears number 14, she received a special message from Edmonton Oilers defenceman Mattias Ekholm, who posted a video on social media wishing her a speedy recovery and expressing solidarity.
This collective encouragement highlights the widespread hope for Maya's continued improvement as she navigates her path to healing from this tragic event.
