Baltimore Orioles, Ravens superfan Mo Gaba dies at 14 after cancer battle
The Baltimore pro sports community lost an inspiration Tuesday.
Mo Gaba, the young Ravens and Orioles diehard, died following his fifth battle with cancer. He was 14.
Hours before his passing, the Orioles inducted Gaba into the team Hall of Fame as the second recipient of the Wild Bill Hagy award.
“Mo’s positive energy has been constant throughout every battle and continues to bring the entire city of Baltimore together in the face of ongoing crisis,” the Orioles said in a statement. “His unwavering positivity and kindness are qualities every Baltimorean aspires to emulate. Mo Gaba has impacted more people in his 14 years than most people do in an entire lifetime, and the Orioles are honored to forever celebrate him as a member of the Orioles Hall of Fame.”
Our most dedicated fan is forever with us in our Hall of Fame. pic.twitter.com/usFYQk7s0p
His passion made him a favorite among players; Gaba and Adam Jones (formerly of the Orioles) became close through the Purple Tailgate, a Ravens’ pregame fundraiser for the youngster each fall. Trey Mancini, who was diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer before spring training, took over Jones’ hosting role after his departure from Baltimore and attended Gaba’s middle school graduation.
Mo Gaba (center) walks off the field after the coin toss prior to the game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. (Photo: Evan Habeeb, USA TODAY Sports)
“There is no one more deserving of this incredible honor than Mo,” Mancini said in a statement. “Throughout his battles with cancer, Mo never lost his kind spirit, his sense of humor, or his love of the Orioles.
“Rest In Peace, my friend,” Mancini tweeted. “Your kindness, bravery, and positivity has left a lasting impact on all of us who were lucky enough to have met you. You have truly made this world a better place. We love you, Mo.”
Truly honored to have been able to meet this gentle soul. Mo GABA, you were a true inspiration, and a pleasure to be around. Your legacy will shine on!!#ForeverMo#MoStrongpic.twitter.com/6VOZEerbvZ
Rest In Peace, my friend. Your kindness, bravery, and positivity has left a lasting impact on all of us who were lucky enough to have met you. You have truly made this world a better place. We love you, Mo. pic.twitter.com/QzXMFFyG5S
Gaba’s first battle with cancer left him blind from the time he was nine months old. In 2019, he became the first person to announce a NFL draft pick using braille.
"The world has lost a beautiful spirit and a shining light. With his infectious laugh, amazing love of life and love of Baltimore sports, Mo captured the hearts of not only our organization, but the entire state of Maryland," Ravens coach John Harbaugh said in a statement.
Follow Chris Bumbaca on Twitter @BOOMbaca.
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