Stapanek biography

American writer (1990-2004)

Matthew Joseph Thaddeus Stepanek (July 17, 1990 – June 22, 2004), known as Mattie J.T. Stepanek, was an American poet (or, as he wanted to be remembered, "a poet, a peacemaker, and a philosopher who played")^[2] who published seven best-selling books of poetry and peace essays.

Before his death at the age of 13, he had become known as a peace advocate and motivational speaker.

Life and career

Matthew Stepanek was born on July 17, 1990.

Mattie stepanek biography poetry

Stepanek's parents divorced when he was a child.^[3] He was raised in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, and later lived in Rockville, Maryland.^[3] His hero was former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who described Stepanek as "the most extraordinary person whom I have ever known".^[3][4][5][6]

Stepanek had the rare disorder dysautonomic mitochondrial myopathy.

His three older siblings died from the same illness. The condition was unknown un