Staff Writer

Shea Fleming seemed to enjoy his work at the YMCA so much, senior program director Scott Sandor wondered if a career with the Y might be in Fleming's future.

Friends and family of Fleming will always be left to ponder what more his life would have offered. The personal trainer at the YMCA and USC-Union Dean's List student died in an automobile accident on Feb. 12. He was 21.

Reminders of Fleming stand out at the YMCA - including a picture of him on the front desk and another framed portrait on a table in a hallway leading to the fitness room.

“In loving memory of our Sheabutter,” says a caption across one of the pictures.

To help his memory live on and to assist his family, the YMCA and USC-Union will hold a “Shea Day” 5-K walk/run and fund-raiser on Saturday, March 15 beginning at 9 a.m. There will be a blood drive, bake sale, games, inflatable rides, prizes and food for sale.

Registration for the run is $20. The deadline is March 8. Late registration fee is $25. You may register at the YMCA or USC-Union. The registration fee includes a T-shirt. Awards will be given to the first, second and third place walkers and the first, second and third place runners to reach the finish line.

All proceeds will go to the Fleming family for burial expenses.

The blood drive will be held from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. that day and also is in Fleming's memory. Sandor said Fleming was a frequent blood donor.

“He was a great young man,” Sandor said. “He's one of those people who seemed to enjoy his job and working with the members. He was one of those people you thought might like to continue working with the YMCA as a career. He was good at it and he enjoyed it.”

Sandor said Shea Day is a group effort.

“Local restaurants and individuals are donating the supplies in support of it,” he said. “A lot of people are contributing. It's just about helping out Shea's family.”