Matthew Joseph Thaddeus Stepanek

Mattie and one of his books (http://www.mda.org/mattie/mattie_book.jpg)

Mattie J.T. Stepanek
1990- 2004

Mattie Stepanek has touched the hearts of thousands of people across the nation. His poetry sends us messages of hope, joy and peace that make us think about what we can do. Forever and many years on, Mattie will always have a special place in my heart. He is my hero.

Born Matthew Joseph Thaddeus Stepanek, nicknamed Mattie, has been writing inspirational poetry since the age of three. He suffered from a muscular dystrophy, a disease that weakened his muscles, his digestive system, and gave him difficulty breathing and trouble with his heart. His two brothers and sister have died from the disease Mattie struggles with. Even with this disease, Mattie’s spirit is kept alive by his hope, peace for the world and his dreams. Before he began using Slick, his wheelchair, he received a black belt in martial arts. Other hobbies he enjoyed, were playing with Lego’s, reading, writing, rock collecting, brainstorming, writing his poetry, and being with his friends “The Martin Girls” from summer camp. His philosophy is to “Play after every storm,” On June 22, 2004; Mattie’s muscular dystrophy took a terrible turn, and died in his mother’s arms. Jeni Stepanek, Mattie’s mother said she tried to say as many “I love you’s” as she could.

Books by Mattie
A Collection of Heartsongs
Journey through Heartsongs
Hope through Heartsongs
Celebrate through Heartsongs
Loving through Heartsongs
Reflections of a Peacemaker
Just Peace (by Mattie with Jimmie Carter)