MDA's Mattie Is Nation's Best-Selling Author
TUCSON, Ariz., Jan. 25, 2002 – Mattie J.T. Stepanek, the Muscular Dystrophy Association's 11-year-old National Goodwill Ambassador, is now the nation's best-selling author, according to The New York Times.
Mattie's Journey Through Heartsongs, a collection of poetry, has vaulted to the top of the Times' Feb. 3 best-seller list for hard-cover fiction.
The book is likely seeing renewed interest since Hyperion Books re-released it nationwide this month, along with the gifted young writer's first book, Heartsongs. Mattie appeared on CBS's "The Early Show" and PBS's "HealthWeek" last weekend.
"What a thrill! We're elated that so many people are appreciating Mattie's amazing gift for writing, and his spirit as a human being," MDA President Robert Ross said. "MDA is honored to be represented by this remarkable young man."
Mattie, of Upper Marlboro, Md., has mitochondrial myopathy, a rare neuromuscular disease that causes generalized weakness, breathing and heart problems, requiring him to use a power wheelchair and a ventilator. The disease also affects his mother, Jeni.
As MDA's National Goodwill Ambassador, Mattie represents the Association at a variety of fund-raisers and sponsor gatherings and in MDA promotional materials.
He first came to national attention last year after his books were issued by VSP Books. Mattie's next book, Hope Through Heartsongs, will be released in April. Two other collections of his poems are scheduled for publication later this year.
Hyperion publishes, markets and distributes the books in partnership with VSP Books.
To read more about Mattie and his upcoming appearances, visit MDA's Web site at www.mda.org/mattie. He's also featured on the cover of the 2002 February issue of MDA's national magazine, Quest.
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