WILKES-BARRE TOWNSHIP, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — It's with heavy hearts that 28/22 News shares the passing of the 2025 Remarkable Woman, Lisa Urbanski.
Lisa was a champion for children with special needs and their families. She was a wife, mother, and friend to so many in our community.
Now, 28/22 looks back at the incredible difference she made over the years.
Lisa had no idea she was about to be honored as our 2025 Remarkable Woman.
"No clue, honest to God, I had no clue whatsoever," Lisa said.
Her dedication, however, had been clear for years.
As the mother of Joseph, born premature with complex medical needs, Lisa saw firsthand how families struggled to find resources and support.
"There needs to be something out there to help these families. It didn't matter what the disability was, just that we're here for them," Lisa shared.
With friend Bernice Sando, Lisa founded Brighter Journeys, starting with a small Easter Egg Hunt and expanding into a nonprofit serving 13 counties.
Congratulations to Remarkable Women 2025 Winner Lisa Urbanski
"What started off with 300 kids is up to 1200, and it's the most magical day in my life," Lisa explained.
Brighter Journeys provides wheelchairs, stair lifts, bikes, therapies, and financial support for families in need, while creating a community where everyone feels included.
"You're humbled to be able to help these children. They can come here and take their time and enjoy themselves," Lisa stated.
Even while battling ovarian cancer, Lisa continued to pour her heart into Brighter Journeys.
"Brighter Journeys is a blessing to me, because it's keeping me going," said Lisa.
Her legacy touched thousands, with over $250,000 in gifts, resources, and experiences granted to local families.
For Lisa, the greatest reward was always the smiles of the children she helped.
"Those smiles are for real. It's more than satisfying, it's perfect," Lisa shared.
The team at Brighter Journeys shared a statement after her passing, saying in part:
"We are heartbroken to share that our co-founder, Lisa Urbanski, has passed away after a courageous battle… She poured endless love and dedication into brighter journeys, and our community is better because of her… We are deeply grateful for the legacy Lisa leaves behind."
The Brighter Journeys Team
Lisa Urbanski's legacy will live on through Brighter Journeys and the families she touched. We send our deepest condolences to her husband, her son Joseph, and all who loved her.
