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Megan was one of our CORE students at Baptist Health Fort Smith. She was smart, kind and a cat lover, but what I remember most was her bigger than life smile that would light up a room and never seemed to fade. You will be missed.

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I'll never find the right words to express my feelings, but I miss you. You were hilarious, kindhearted, and passionate all at once. You never hesitated to give advice and wisdom to others. You were so SILLY. SO darn silly!! I still hear your random witty sayings and it makes me laugh and then I get a little sad. But I'm so glad to have gotten to know you for the short time I did, I will carry you with me always.

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My final memory of us is forever preserved with joyfulness: laughing together in your living room about Harpo.

Thank you for your profound understanding and love you gave, even when I struggled to receive it. I am sorry I never found the right words in time to tell you how much you meant to me. Since I can no longer say it, I hope these words can find you. Dr. Herrold, you remain forever my psychiatrist, tarot card reader, and irreplaceable friend.

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Living on campus at The Residents, it didn't take long to notice the "sewer cats" as we lovingly referred to them. But litters of kittens kept occuring and something needed to be done. I spent over 2 weeks trying to catch this handsome tuxedo cat that we suspected was the male cat that kept getting the female cat pregnant. He was very friendly, but the moment he realized you were trying to catch him or lure him inside, all bets were off and he booked it. No amount of food could tempt him.

I had mentioned this to Megan in passing and without missing a beat she offered to lend me an animal trap cage so that I could catch him and get him fixed. Without that, I definitely never would've been able to safely capture him. His name is now Sepper and he's living his best life with one of my classmates and his family. Sepper still gets to enjoy the outdoor life at his new home and come inside when he wants (especially when it's chilly).

There's so much I'm grateful to Megan for, and helping to bring Sepper together with his new forever family is only one of them.

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Everyone grieves in their own way, and for me, it’s often hard to put these feelings into words—especially here. But I couldn’t go without saying how deeply grateful I am to have called her a friend. She was truly special. She always spoke with so much love about her family and her husband, sharing stories of her childhood with her brothers and her time in LA. Those conversations will stay with me forever. She was a beautiful soul, and I will never forget her.

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Everyone grieves in their own way, and for me, it’s often hard to put these feelings into words—especially here. But I couldn’t go without saying how deeply grateful I am to have called her a friend. She was truly special. She always spoke with so much love about her family and her husband, sharing stories of her childhood with her brothers and her time in LA. Those conversations will stay with me forever. She was a beautiful soul, and I will never forget her.

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Megan was an amazingly kind person with a contagiously empathetic personality.

In every interaction I had with Megan, I understood that she was listening to me intently and was looking for ways to help and connect in any way she could. Her beautiful spirit, combined with her diligence and passion for giving a voice to those who didn't have one, made her not only a skilled clinician and advocate but also a great teammate and friend. I have repeatedly heard from my classmates and preceptors how impressed they were with Megan's ability to connect with patients while on her clinical rotations. Her fun-loving nature and sincerity could be felt by everyone around her. She was the kind of person who connected with people to build long-term relationships, with a foundation built on kindness and empathy. She would've been an amazing psychiatrist, and this loss is not only deeply felt in our school, but also in our community. I am eternally grateful to have met Megan.

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I met Megan for the first time in anatomy lab, where we were in a group for almost the whole first year of medical school. At first, that’s the only time we really spoke. I would get home from lab and talk to my husband Brady, and tell him about you and all the cool life experiences you had. If I had to thank anybody for our friendship, it would have to be Brady for relentlessly suggesting I invite you to study with me. I have always been someone who has to reach out to others to be included, and after half a year of trying to fit in and still being left out, I decided I needed a change. And that’s when we started studying together. I think my favorite thing, and the memories I will always laugh at when I look back to, are our times studying for OMM lab exams. I know how much OMM frustrated you, because everything came so easily to you, except HVLA. It is so hard to explain to anyone who is not studying to be a DO, how hard it is to be supportive and not laugh at your partner who tried to crack your back in slow motion. I will never forget when you finally got it, and our celebratory reactions that had drawn everyone’s attention to us. You would always apologize during practice, as if I expected you to be perfect on the first try. Or the amount of times you would apologize for your hands being sweaty. It would always crack me up when you would wipe your hands off before starting your technique. You would always hug me before we left, and thank me for helping you practice. I remember you telling me one night when we were wrapping up how it felt like sometimes you were excluded from your other friends gatherings, and you thought it was maybe your age or you being “weird”. You were always such a breath of fresh air, someone to look forward to seeing during the day. Even when you weren’t having a good day, somehow you would still cheer up anyone you were around. I remember you finding out I was 22, and your reaction was telling me that you could “be my mom”. There weren’t many times our age difference was apparent, but when it showed, you made sure to remind me with a “oh yeah I forgot you’re young!”. You and I would send photos of our animals back and forth all the time. Whenever anyone found a cat in need, somehow the name “Megan Herrold” came to their mind. To me, it shows how exceptionally kind hearted people you and Billy are; even animals always intentionally would seek you two out. One of my favorite cat memories is when you fell playing with your cats and got that black eye. Everyone kept asking if you were okay, and you had to keep telling the story over and over again. We volunteered at the farmers market that weekend, and almost every person asked you “what’s the other guy look like?” and you had to tell them it was a cat. I have so many memories in the three years I knew you, I could write a book. I never have had a friend like you, and every day I am thankful for the time I had with you. You would always tell me how much of your younger self you saw in me. I wish I could grow into half the person you were. In my mind you will always be Dr. Megan Herrold, the world’s best psychiatrist. The goofiest friend with the brightest smile, the crazy cat lady, the English guru. I will miss you everyday, and carry you with me forever.

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During the third year of medical school, Farin kept asking me to go to Baptist lunch with her. I didn't particularly want to go across town to eat hospital food. I worried about the time, the potential doctors that would want us to leave, the traffic... but I found myself uncharacteristically saying yes to such a social conundrum. I soon found out not only was it the best hospital lunch I had ever eaten, but it was also in the best company. Looking back, I said yes to something so uncommon for me, and I think the reason for it was that it gave me the opportunity to know Megan better.

We had occasionally talked during the preclinical years and on COMAT exam mornings when we always joked and exchanged horror stories from the prior month. But it was really over the last four months that we had grown closer. We had begun exchanging funny reels daily, whether it be funny cat videos or super southern animations that she said reminded her of me. She had a way about her that always made sure you felt comfortable and heard, and she always knew to check on you when you needed it the most.

While Farin and I were recently at Good Sam for a rotation, Megan had mentioned an antique gynecological exam table and sent a photo. I knew from the background that it was at Belle Star in town. Megan soon arrived at the clinic, and we carpooled to the store. I remember learning that day that she had spent some time growing up in Arkansas, not all that far from where I did, and I asked her why we hadn't bonded sooner.  We ended up dragging Dr. Z with us, trying wholeheartedly to convince her to buy this exam table that none of us had room for. During that visit, I remember seeing this huge, 200+ year old book, and I waved Megan over so we could gawk over it together.

I wish we had bought something that day, but I cannot tell you how grateful we all are that we took this picture. I miss seeing your name on my notifications. I don't think I can look at hospital food or cats the same. Until we meet again, friend.

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From being paired with Megan to teach OMM to 2nd year medical students to randomly bumping into her in the hallways after exams, to giving her a cat tree for her beloved cats, she was always a bright light. Her positivity was exactly what I needed despite the grueling days of medical school. Our last conversation a few months ago was about how fitting the psychiatry path was for her, because she was such a personable individual and extremely easy to talk to. We laughed about her horrible pediatric rotation experience and dreaded the time to come for 4th year. In that moment, like all other moments I had with her, she spun that around to make me see the positive and the light at the end of the tunnel, that we were almost there and we were going to be doctors soon. Megan was more than a friend—she was an advocate, a source of warmth, kindness, and unwavering support. My deepest condolences go out to her husband and family. The loss of someone so special is immeasurable.

Megan will remain with us—in our memories, in our work, and in the lives she touched.

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I remember the first time we got to chat. We were in line to get our flu shots and you were just so kind and outgoing that I remember leaving that day thinking wow that has to one of the most interesting people I’ve ever met. You told me about your time in China, about your path to medical school and without hesitation you shared your excitement for my goals as well. You were always there to ask how things were going, give encouragement or just share something funny. Your sense of humor was endless and so perfectly timed. Megan the world is better because of your light. So many people will continue to carry that light and as we do we will continue to advocate for all people just like you did.

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I met Megan my first year working at ARCOM and her first year of medical school. We have worked on projects together through diversity and CME. Megan’s passion and commitment were evident in her work to provide education on treating underserved populations. Megan made an incredible impact globally even though she was still young. I always enjoyed sharing stories with her and listening to stories about her beloved cat and their adventures. Over the last year, our communication was mostly through email since she was on rotations however I recently got to connect with her in passing in the hall. We stopped and caught up with each other. I am now so grateful I had those few moments with her. She will be deeply missed, and her impact will not be forgotten.

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I remember the conversations we had about our cats. The way she talked about them and how she could never say no to a stray that showed up at her door and likely needing another cat tree said everything about the kind of person she was, someone overflowing with kindness and empathy.

I only knew her for a short time, but she made a lasting impact. Whenever we crossed paths, she’d always ask how I was doing — like an older sister checking in, especially on the days when med school felt like a string of quiet battles. Her presence felt like a warm hug of encouragement — a gentle reminder that we were in this together.

You left too soon, before I had the chance to thank you for all the moments you made brighter. You will be missed more than words can express, but we will carry you in our hearts, always.

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What am I supposed to say?

You were light in a world that’s often heavy.

Not because you didn’t see the mess,

but because you did, and still showed up kind.

Like a person waiting with the door open.

If I were a stray cat, I'd come in.

You didn’t try to fix everything, but made it easier to bear.

Your words landed soft, even when they told the truth.

You saw through people and chose to stay anyway.

Never loud, but somehow always present.

I always felt better whenever I saw you, even better when we said goodbye.

Now it’s just quiet.

And I keep thinking you should still be here.

I don’t have the right words, and maybe there aren’t any.

But I hope wherever you are, you feel light again.

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Megan and I met during the first semester of medical school. We were so excited to find out that we both went to USC, and we even joked that she might have been my English teacher before we both switched careers.

I had the pleasure of getting to know her better on rotations this past year, when we were in the same Internal Medicine squad. We'd always run into each other in the early mornings at the hospital while doing rounds. She was so bright and cheerful, even at 6am. She was probably one of the most positive, genuine, hard-working and humble people I've ever met. I feel really grateful to have been able to cross paths with her in this lifetime.

Fight On Forever Megan <3

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Megan was such a bright, caring soul. I had the pleasure of meeting her through the LGBTQIA+ Healthcare Alliance. She stepped up to serve and strengthened the organization. Knowing her through that work, I knew she was going to be an excellent doctor one day. She just radiated compassion. And not just for people. I once ran into her and her husband, Billy, at Home Depot. They had purchased insulation foam board for use in an outdoor cat shelter. It wouldn’t fit in their vehicle, so I lent them my pocketknife to cut it down. Just an example of her love for animals. Although her time was too short, her impact was immense. And her memory will forever be a blessing.

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Very sorry for your loss. She was a lovely person, and impacted many people with her life. That impact will live on.

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I first met Megan when she started here at ACHE. She ALWAYS had a smile on her face when I saw her. I enjoyed chatting with her, for however brief a time it was, while she came to the library. She will truly be missed.

Tomorrow is never promised. May we carry forward what truly matters kindness, love, and connection and let go of the things that divide us, remembering the life of Megan.

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Meeting Megan, my neighbor, was a true gift. Our shared love for cats quickly forged a bond, and she possessed a rare warmth that made everyone feel listened to and important. I'm heartbroken that her life ended so soon, but I'll forever be thankful that we crossed paths.

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Megan was a friend of a friend- until she wasn’t. We bonded over loving our neighborhood stray kitties when we discovered we were neighbors. She was joyful, giving, and her smile was so contagious. Her enthusiasm for life and her way of seeking out the good in every situation will stay with me and in me forever. She was so special and my world is better for knowing her.

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Megan was one of the kindest and most genuine people I had the privilege of knowing at ARCOM. She always made the effort to check in and ask how I was doing, and her advice on rotations was thoughtful and incredibly helpful. She had the biggest heart—not just for people, but for animals too. I remember how she always seemed to have a new cat she had taken in from around the neighborhood. Megan was a true advocate for others, and I have no doubt she would have made an exceptional psychiatrist. I miss you deeply, Megan. It still feels so surreal that you’re gone. You left a mark on everyone lucky enough to know you, and your kindness won’t be forgotten.

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Megan was so lovely. I enjoyed hearing about her time living and teaching in China.

I remember when I was at my rock bottom in my personal life, I viewed her as somebody I would like to become. I wanted to travel as she had, find someone who loves me and supports me as she did, and just feel settled, steady, and drumming to my own gentle beat. It always struck me when I saw the flash of her mismatched socks because it felt so lighthearted, and joyful. It was so on brand for her.

I loved the humor she expressed in her Instagram stories, and usually she had to post about cats. She was a reminder of my lost humanity for myself, and that there was satisfaction in the little things in life and hope. I am sad I will never get to catch up with her and get to know her more as a writer, but I am filled with even more sorrow that patients will never be healed by her hands. She was part of my healing journey and finding my way back to medicine, and I hope she knows how much her light in my life meant. To her family, husband, and cats, thank you for being there for her and giving her the strength and levity to touch the people she did. Her wisdom and light will never be forgotten.

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Megan was a kind soul who made everyone feel seen, heard, and valued. Her warmth and compassion touched every life she encountered. She would have been an incredible physician—caring, thoughtful, and deeply dedicated. We will miss her more than words can say.

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Megan loved people-all people -and was a fierce advocate for all.