Bryan Hoopengardner

I didn't even know Bryan, but this is what I do know: he left us too soon. Bryan was born with cystic fibrosis, and his family knew his time would be short. Bryan passed away on March 31st, 2005. There's a nice article about him at the Arlington Cemetery website.

The reason I mention him here, aside from trying to bring attention to cystic fibrosis, is to share a story of Joan (Bryan's mom) having to deal with 'taking care of matters' after his passing. It must be so hard dealing with the little things... like closing a bank account. After going through a number of questions in the process of trying to close out one of Bryan's bank accounts, Joan finally told the clerk that Bryan had passed away. The clerk was so saddened and uphauled at herself for asking all the questions, she apologized profusely and rapidly took care of business. Not so at Lifetime Fitness in Centreville.

Joan went into Lifetime to cancel Bryan's membership, as she has been working to close out other aspects of Bryan's life every time she regains the strength to do so. It may be a while after what she went through at Lifetime. The Lifetime clerk referred Joan to the manager, who after discussing it with her demanded to see a copy of Bryan's death certificate before he would be willing to cancel the account. Joan pitched a fit loud enough for the entire gym to hear. I hope the other gym members heard and reconsider renewing their accounts.

It doesn't forgive the manager at the Centreville Lifetime. To this person, money was more important than sympathy. I hope he gets what he deserves.