Mattie Gets His Wish

MDA Goodwill Ambassador, Mattie Stepanek with General President Harold Schaitberger Mattie Writes for His "Heroes" on 9-11-2001 It was a dark day in America. There was no amazing grace. Freedom did not ring. Tragedy attacked sky-high. Fiery terror reigned. Structures collapsed. Red with blood, white with ash, And out-of-the-sky blue. As children trust elders, Citizens find faith in leaders. But they were all blinded, Shocked by the blasts. Undefiable outrage. Undeniable outpouring Of support, even prayer, Or at least, moments of silence. Church and State Could not be separated. A horrific blasting of events With too few happy endings. Can the children sleep Safely in their beds tonight? Can the citizens ever rest Assured of national security again? God, please, bless America... And the rest of our earthly home. Mattie Stepanek Sept. 11, 2001

Maryland MDA Good Will Ambassador, 10-year-old Mattie Stepanek, is a brilliant poet and writer who has won the hearts and minds of many IAFF members, including General President Harold Schaitberger. Most recently, he won the attention of movie producer Steven Spielberg.

In early June, as Mattie lay in his hospital bed at Childrens Hospital in Washington, he told the hospital staff that he would love to see the just released movie Shrek. The staff reached out to Speilberg, explaining that it was impossible for him to leave the hospital to view the film in a theater. To everyone's surprise and excitement, a representative from Spielberg's DreamWorks production company flew from Los Angeles to Washington to deliver a copy of the movie for Mattie to view, along with a bag full of Shrek toys.

General President Schaitberger saluted Spielberg's actions on behalf of Mattie. "Mattie is determined to live every moment of his life to the fullest, even as he fights for every breath," Schaitberger said. "Mr. Speilberg's generosity on behalf of Mattie is greatly appreciated by the IAFF and MDA."

Mattie holds a special place in General President Schaitberger’s heart who has known him for over 8 years and calls him “my personal hero”. Mattie has appeared on local broadcasts of the Jerry Lewis Labor Day telethon. IAFF is the biggest sponsor of MDA telethon and Mattie is one of the many children that our members help and support to fight the dreadful neuromuscular disorder through their Boot Drives and generous contributions to the MDA.

Mattie recently presented his colorful book of poetry, "Heart Songs," at a reception at Children's Hospital. He was also presented a blanket on behalf of General President Schaitberger on this occasion. Mattie published poems and received an international award in 1999 for his poetry.

Lending a hand to spirited children like Mattie encourages and inspires IAFF members to fight for life and survive. Fire fighters have always been the savers of life and selfless givers to protect people. Their dedication to MDA is a part of that same spirit and tradition.