Mattie J.T. Stepanek, 1990-2004

Mattie J.T. Stepanek, a well-respected poet and award-winning peace ambassador, lived a life that was brief in length but powerfully blessed with depth. Born on July 17, 1990, Mattie began creating and sharing Heartsongs at the young age of 3. He explained that Heartsongs are “gifts that reflect each person’s unique reason for being.”
 
Mattie ultimately published six collections of Heartsongs poetry books, and one collection of Just Peace essays and e-mail correspondence with Former President Jimmy Carter. All seven of Mattie’s books became New York Times Bestsellers and touched millions of lives around the world.
 
He died on June 22, 2004 due to complications of Dysautonomic Mitochondrial Myopathy.

Browse the sections below to learn more about Mattie’s life, disability, advocacy, and legacy.