Brantley Douglas Wisk was born early on August 11, 2015, with a major heart defect and Down Syndrome. Brantley spent the first year of his life in and out of hospitals, and in February 2016, he underwent major heart surgery, which was a success.

Brantley was not your typical kid. He was unable to eat by mouth, so he required a tube that went through his belly button directly into his stomach to eat (called a G-Tube). He didn’t really look like other kids, either. He was smaller, less developed, and couldn’t talk in the same ways as other children his age were able to.

Despite these challenges, in September 2018, Brantley started attending Waretown Elementary Preschool, something he absolutely loved. WES was like his second home, and he was adored by his teachers and classmates alike.

Whether it be playing on the playground with P, H, and Mac (the names he gave to his teachers) or doing his best to sit still during video chat meetings, Brantley was always smiling and full of energy.

Brantley’s classmates knew he wasn’t exactly like them, and that was okay. They were friends with him, all the same —a kindness Brantley’s Wish hopes to reflect.

Because he still couldn’t eat by mouth and needed someone knowledgeable in his peculiarities with him just in case, Brantley was provided with a nurse who joined him at school and overnight.

This responsibility (and believe me, she had her work cut out for her) was given to Mrs. Katie Krawiec, who came to be like family. Mrs. Katie was both patient and loving to Brantley despite his complex needs, qualities we should all demonstrate to those like Brantley in our communities.

Tragically, on January 31, 2022, Brantley passed away from congestive heart failure due to an unknown stomach virus.

In May, Waretown Elementary hosted a tree-planting ceremony in his honor, with members of his class each contributing a rock to be placed around the tree.

Brantley’s Wish was started by Nate Kripinski, Brantley’s older brother, in October 2024, while he was a Junior at Southern Regional High School. He and his family hope to keep Brantley’s memory alive by spreading awareness, positivity, and support for people with special needs in our communities and beyond. We host events & in some cases provide direct support to those in need. We thank you for listening to our story.