Mattie Stepanek

Mattie Stepanek is one of the most well known child authors, and Peacemaker. He inspired millions with his words. He is my hero because of the struggles he went through, his attitude, and his actions/achievements. 

Mattie was born on July 17, 1990. He was born with a rare form of muscular dystrophy, and dysautonomic mitochondrial myopathy. He spent most of his time in a wheelchair. "Muscular dystrophy (MD) is a group of muscle diseases that weaken the musculoskeletal system and hamper locomotion." according to Wikipedia. Over time your muscles get weaker. "Mitochondrial disease is a group of disorders caused by dysfunctional mitochondria, theorganelles that generates energy for the cell." Mattie's mom also had this disease, and Mattie's Siblings died from it.

Mattie's attitude also was always inspiring. He made many people laugh and he was very uplifting. Mattie also had 3 wishes, and his wishes weren't ordinary wishes like having a free week at Disneyland. Mattie wanted meaningful wishes, he said," I want wishes that would last forever..." His wishes were to have his book publishes, to talk to Jimmie Carter, and to meet Oprah Winfrey.

Mattie accomplished so much in so little time. He earned a black belt in martial arts before he was in his wheelchair. He wrote poems that inspired people, taught people the meaning of a " Heartsong", which is your message form the heart. And showed the world what a kid can do if you give them a chance.

Mattie Stepanek died on June 22, 2004, one month before his 14th birthday. Mattie was my hero because of the struggles he faced, his joyful attitude, and his astonishing achievements.  Its is very rare that someone like him gets a chance to share their story. So next time give people a chance before you shut them out.