Braden Michael Wilson
“It only takes a small deed to brighten someone else’s day.” Braden Michael Wilson shared those words in a 2019 speech at his eighth grade promotion ceremony. On Jan. 5, 2021, Braden lost his chance to brighten others’ days. He died of complications associated with MIS-C, a rare multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children linked to COVID-19, at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, his family said. He was 15.
Braden, of Simi Valley, took up activities like swimming, dance, painting, comedy and theater throughout his life, according to his aunt Clarissa Larcom. As he got older, he showed an interest in technology and began making videos.
Amanda Wilson, Braden’s mother, wrote a letter to her son after his death, talking about his smile, his giggles and his pure heart.
“Alas, your days for earthly adventures by my side has quickly drained,” she wrote. “But your grace, joy, kindness and beauty will forever remain.”