12-year-old girl breathing on her own after being shot in head, neck by trans BC shooter

The family of Maya Gebala, the 12-year-old girl who was shot during the shooting in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia earlier in the month, have revealed that their daughter is beginning to take her own breaths.

In an update from Maya’s father, David Gebala, he wrote, "Every single day, you show us just how strong, determined, and incredible you truly are. You continue to defy every expectation the doctors and surgeons once prepared us for. We were told we only had hours and yet here you are, still fighting, still with us."

"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."

The girl had been shot in the back of the head and neck when trans-identified gunman Jesse Van Rootselaar, also known as Jesse Strang, opened fire at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School after fatally shooting his mother and brother in a nearby residence. Six people died at the school.

"My sweet girl, I always knew you were strong but you are an absolute warrior. We are so unbelievably proud of you, and we love you more than words could ever express," her father added. "And to everyone who continues to pray, support, and lift our baby girl up thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your love means everything to us."

The GoFundMe set up for Maya’s treatment and to support her family members so they can be by her side in the hospital has raised over $443,000 as of Thursday afternoon, surpassing the $250,000 goal that was set.

In the days following the shooting, Maya’s mother, Cia Edmonds, revealed that her daughter had moved. "Day of recovery. Shes moved!!. Its stimulus, a kick, a hand move, but it’s something!!. Its truely something new in almost 48 hours. Keep up the positive vibes."

She added, "We need to know this isn't it. She will continue to improve despite those opinions. We will also be having a fresh look with a second opinion. We are so incredibly grateful for the outpour of support literally around the world!. We still hold strong for the families who aren’t so fortunate."