Berletney proudly served 13 years in the U.S. military as a combat medic. During his time in uniform, he served multiple combat units, including 1st Battalion, 321st Field Artillery Regiment and 1st Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, where he provided critical medical and combat medical support. He achieved the rank of E6 and deployed to Kosovo, a combat zone, where he served with honor and dedication.
His military career, which he deeply valued, was unfortunately cut short due to complications from a chronic kidney condition. Before being medically discharged, Berletney was honored with a Meritorious Service Award for exceptional service in his field. He reflects on his time in service with pride—especially the opportunity to provide care in high-pressure environments and stand beside those who served on the front lines.
After leaving the military, Berletney continued helping others through his work at the Department of Veterans Affairs. There, he supported veterans in a variety of roles, including loan guarantee programs, IT support, and business operations. On top of that, he and his wife co-founded Resumeyourway.com, a small business that provides resume writing, career coaching, and job support services for people from all walks of life. We’ve matched our growth with generosity, channeling 50% of our profits back into the community to fund comprehensive, cost-free career services for disabled veterans. This initiative alone has provided invaluable support to over 500 veterans annually, contributing to a broader mission of reducing veteran unemployment and facilitating seamless transitions to civilian life.
As a continuation of their mission to give back, they offer pro bono services to the Department of Veterans Affairs, specifically helping the most “in-need” veterans in the VR&E (Veteran Readiness and Employment) program. Our dedication to societal impact and veteran support was recognized with the prestigious 2023 Platinum HIRE Vets Medallion Award, highlighting our unwavering commitment to facilitating veteran employment and writing 4,000 pro bono resumes for veterans.
Berletney is a devoted husband and father to four young children. They are a constant source of joy and energy. Arianna, his eldest, is a miniature mom, effortlessly juggling homework and household chores with a bright smile. Ariel is a ball of sunshine, bursting into the room with her infectious laughter and hugs, always ready to light up a room. Zachary is growing into a gentle giant, carefully guiding his little brother Joshua with his big brother’s patience and kindness. And baby Joshua is just beginning to learn the joys of being part of a lively family, giggling at his siblings’ antics and trying to join in on the fun.
At the center of it all is Berletney’s wife, Maryam, a loving partner, dedicated mom, and guiding light for their family. She’s the master chef, whipping up healthy meals from scratch, and an amazing homeschooling partner, guiding their children with patience and creativity. As a partner, she’s Berletney’s rock, supporting him through life’s ups and downs, and as a mom, she’s the nurturing heart of the family, encouraging her children to grow and thrive. Her selflessness and devotion are the threads that weave their family together, making them stronger and more resilient in the face of challenges.
He and Maryam give back to the community through their “The Younger Leaders Learning Network” homeschooling group. They are not only dedicated to educating their four children but have created a nurturing environment for 12 more Pre-K- 5th grade students, some of whom have autism and learning disabilities. Berletney describes Maryam as the core reason their family operates like a strong, unified team, especially through challenging times.
While serving in Korea, Berletney was diagnosed with Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis after taking a mandatory malaria vaccine. FSGS is a serious kidney condition that can cause permanent damage and lead to kidney failure. Through determined lifestyle changes, he was able to slow its progression, but his kidneys are now functioning at just 12%—well below the threshold for kidney failure. Without a transplant or dialysis, this level of kidney function is life-threatening. Though he has not yet started dialysis, he is advised monthly to prepare for it.
He lives with constant fatigue, swelling, cramps, and cognitive fog—all while pushing through to be the husband, father, and community servant he feels called to be. A kidney transplant is not just a medical need for Berletney; it is his best chance to survive, stay active in his children’s lives, and continue supporting others through his work and outreach.
Berletney finds his greatest joy in being with his family—homeschooling, teaching, exploring, and adventuring together. He’s deeply committed to nurturing his children’s growth, not just as a parent, but as a guide, mentor, and constant presence in their lives. His love for them shows up in everyday moments, from shared discoveries to quiet conversations.
For Berletney, giving back is not just something he does—it’s who he is.
“Helping just one person can ripple into a lifetime of change. Whether that’s me or another veteran in need, I pray you’ll consider being someone’s miracle.”
For medically cleared donors, giving the gift of life through living kidney donation has been proven to be very safe. DOVE will assist all prospective donors throughout the process and make sure they do not incur any out-of-pocket expenses related to the evaluation or surgery. A healthy person can live a normal life with one kidney and save Berletney’s life with the other!
Your support, whether through spreading the word on social media or considering becoming a donor, can make a profound impact on his life and the life of his family!
Please click on the link below if you would like to learn more OR call (551) 233-1611