By Amanda Saunders, BCN intern.

On Thursday, Sept. 10, Richmond Hill Fire Department Firefighter McKayla Conner was awarded $1,000 from the Hupman Real Estate Group for being an outstanding first responder.

The Hupman Group annually holds a contest for the community to nominate first responders they feel deserve $1,000 for their hard work and dedication to the line of duty.

As responses flooded in about many emergency personnel, Conner’s name appeared frequently.

Responses detailing her kindness came from another firefighter Conner trained with, callers she responded to, and her father, who passed away two weeks before she received the award.

“I am disappointed my dad could not be here, but as soon as I told my mom, she booked the soonest flight over here," Conner said. "I am utterly shocked I won. I feel like there are so many other deserving people here that should have won. If possible, I would have nominated everyone here. They are all deserving of this award.”

Richmond Hill first responders on and off duty made time to show their colleague support and attend the event, held the day before 9/11. “I would have never thought I was affecting these people’s lives this much,” Conner said.

“I am incredibly grateful for all the nominations and all the kind words everyone had to say about me.”