Brian Hollingsworth

From the time I started working at the West YMCA in 2008, there was a member who came in regularly, Megan Harris. Back at this time, the branch had a thriving dance program, and her daughter, Lexi, was one of the most active participants. 

Younger brother Connor was basically raised at the West YMCA by a number of staff. Dad was not consistently in the picture, and Megan suffered from multiple health issues, one of the main ones being cancer – although you would never know it talkign to her. 

She was always more concerned about making sure everyone else was winning every battle they had to fight and didn't want to "burden" anyone with her battles. Megan was not only a volunteer but one of the biggest proponents of the West Y. She was also a LIVESTRONG at the YMCA participant. She later became a staff member, serving as the North YMCA’s administrative assistant.

From an early age, Connor was one of the brightest faces who would constantly walk through the doors, despite all of the struggles his family members went through. It didn't take very long before all of the male staff members took Connor under their wings to give him the family support he needed, we quickly became known as his "Y Dads."

One of Connor's favorite passtimes was going to Marvel movies on the weekend they were released. Connor would very commonly show up in his best superhero costume, depending on who the superhero of the day was. Connor quickly became more than just the kid with the bright smile and funny sayings. He became the bright spot of our "Y Dads" days.

Unfortunately, Megan passed in recent years after a continued battle with cancer. Connor also has recently passed due to a pulmonary embolism in his back. 

Even though their presence is no longer with us, Connor and Megan's love for the YMCA, dedication to make everyone smile, and caring ways, have left a deep impact and imprint on more people than they ever could have imagined.