Thirteen-year-old Maya Gebala, who was critically injured in the Tumbler Ridge mass shooting, has become the first international recipient of the Youth Heroism Award from a U.S.-based charity.
The Youth Peace and Justice Foundation, also known as The Uvalde Foundation For Kids, announced on Nov. 3 that it was honouring Gebala with the award, which recognizes young people who demonstrate exceptional courage, leadership, compassion, or selfless action in helping others.
“Heroism is not defined by age, and it is not measured by whether someone walks away unharmed,” said Daniel Chapin, the foundation’s founder and president.
“Maya was a young girl facing an unimaginable situation, and she showed courage in the midst of it. We are honoured to recognize her. Her release from the hospital after 262 days is an important milestone, and we wish her and her family continued strength as her recovery continues.”
Maya was among the victims of 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar, who opened fire at Tumbler Ridge Secondary in northeastern British Columbia in early February. Six people were killed in the attack, including five students and a teacher’s aide. Earlier that day, Van Rootselaar had also shot his mother and 11-year-old half-brother at their home.
According to accounts shared by her family, Maya tried to secure the school library door to protect other students as the attack unfolded. The foundation said it was recognizing both her actions during the shooting and her determination throughout her lengthy recovery.
Maya suffered three gunshot wounds during the attack and was among the most seriously injured survivors. Her family, who has shared details of Maya’s recovery on social media, has said one bullet struck her head above her left eye, another hit her neck, and a third grazed her cheek and earlobe.
Maya was airlifted to B.C. Children’s Hospital in Vancouver, where she underwent multiple surgeries and spent 262 days receiving treatment and rehabilitation.
Her mother previously shared on social media that doctors had warned the family Maya might not survive the night because of the severity of her brain injuries.
On Oct. 29, Maya’s father announced on social media that she had been released from hospital after 262 days of intensive care. He described the discharge as a major milestone, while acknowledging that her recovery was ongoing.
A Gofundme campaign launched by a family member shortly after Maya was hospitalized has raised approximately $603,000 toward its $650,000 goal.
The Youth Peace and Justice Foundation was established following the May 2022 mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, which killed 19 children and two teachers. The U.S.-based nonprofit is dedicated to preventing violence and promoting youth welfare and community safety.
Jennifer Cowan contributed to this report.
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