His social workers would sometimes bring him treats into the intensive
care unit. Such as barbecued ribs.
Before he needed a wheelchair he earned a First Degree Black Belt in
Hapkido (Martial Arts).
One of his wishes was to meet his hero Jimmy Carter. Jimmy was informed
a little boy was dying and wanted to meet him. Mattie met him and lived
longer than the doctors expected.
Billy Gilman sang his heartsong "For Our World" at his funeral.
Had a Golden Retriever service dog named Micah.
Mattie had 3 older siblings who all died from Muscular Dystrophy before
he did. Katie ( b. 1985 ) died at age 2 and a half or 3. Stevie ( b.
1987 ) died at age 6 months. And Jamie ( b. 1989 ) died and at 2 or
3.
At age 11 was already being home-schooled in the 11th grade high school
curriculum.