In the Baltimore Ravens’ M&T Bank Stadium, dedicated NFL fans might have observed a distinct alteration in one of the end zones, specifically the change in color of the “mo” in “Baltimore.”
This alteration bears a touching significance that pays homage to a beloved figure in Raven’s history.
M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland, honors the late inspirational young fan Mossila Kingsley Gaba/ Mo Gaba (January 26, 2006 – July 28, 2020) by displaying the “MO” in gold within “Baltimore” on the end zone. Despite battling cancer and blindness, Mo’s passion for sports led him to become the first to announce an NFL draft pick in Braille in 2019. His legacy lives on through tributes like “Mo’s Rows” in Section 146 during the 2020 season.
Why Is Baltimore’s Mo Written in Another Color?
The Baltimore Ravens’ M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland, made a touching tribute to an inspirational young fan, Mo Gaba, who passed away at 14 in the summer of 2020.
The “MO” in “Baltimore” displayed in gold in one of the end zones is a poignant reminder of Mo Gaba’s lasting impact on both the Ravens and the broader sports community.
Mossila Kingsley Gaba, born on January 26, 2006, was not an ordinary sports fan; he was a remarkable superfan of the Baltimore Orioles and the Ravens.
His love for sports and radio led him to achieve extraordinary milestones despite battling cancer four times throughout his short life.
Mo Gaba’s journey began when he was just nine months old, receiving his first diagnosis of cancer.
Subsequent battles with retinoblastoma resulted in his blindness, but his indomitable spirit and love for sports kept him going.
At the age of 6, he faced a diagnosis of osteosarcoma, which forced him to attend virtual school from the hospital, leaving on-site classes at George Cromwell Elementary.
In 2015, Mo secretly began calling sports radio programs while his mother was at work. The radio hosts, touched by his passion and enthusiasm, extended an invitation to speak at his school, written in Braille.
This was the beginning of his journey as a regular guest on radio programs, gaining a substantial following from his calls to Mix 106.5, CBS Sports Radio, etc.
Mo’s bravery and resilience inspired radio listeners to raise thousands for his medical expenses.
In 2017, he had the honor of throwing a ceremonial first pitch in a game for the Baltimore Orioles. He also participated in a coin toss at a Baltimore Ravens game, cementing his status as a beloved figure in both franchises.
One of Mo’s most significant achievements came in 2019 when he became the first person to announce an NFL draft pick written in Braille.
This groundbreaking moment showcased his determination and passion for sports, transcending physical limitations.
Despite enduring aggressive treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, surgeries, and a bone marrow transplant, Mo’s cancer relentlessly spread to various parts of his body, including his neck, legs, brain, and lungs.
Tragically, Mo Gaba passed away on July 28, 2020, at the age of 14. Just hours before his death, he received the honor of being inducted into the Baltimore Orioles Hall of Fame, receiving the Wild Bill Hagy Award.
Mo’s mother, Sonsy Gaba, shared the heartbreaking news on Facebook, saying, “I lost my best friend today. [Your] legacy will live on, love bug.”
The Pro Football Hall of Fame proudly displays Mo Gaba’s Braille draft card, immortalizing his contribution to the NFL.
During the 2020 season, which saw reduced attendance due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Section 146 was dedicated to “Mo’s Rows.” It was filled with cardboard cutouts of Mo Gaba and his mother.
This initiative ensured that Mo’s spirit continued to be a part of the Ravens’ games, even in the absence of live fans.
Also, on the second anniversary of Mo Gaba’s passing, the Baltimore Orioles celebrated the inaugural “Mo Gaba Day” on July 28, 2022, during a game against the Tampa Bay Rays.
Additionally, the Ravens announced on November 5, 2020, that Mo Gaba would be honored with a street named after him, aptly called “Mo Gaba Way.”
This street serves as a permanent reminder of his remarkable journey, resilience, and unwavering love for sports.
Mo Gaba’s story is a testament to the power of sports to inspire and unite people, transcending physical and personal challenges.
Did you know about Mo and his enduring legacy? What are your thoughts on the tribute Baltimore gave to their superfan?
Let us know in the comments below.
