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How Mattie Stepanek's Words Inspired Millions

Aired on 05/20/2011 | CC tv-pg
In 2001, Oprah introduced the world to an extraordinary little boy, the poet and peacemaker Mattie Stepanek. Mattie was just 11 years old when he came into Oprah's life and viewers learned about this pint-size philosopher's daily battle with a rare form of muscular dystrophy. He and Oprah became very close friends, and when Mattie died, in 2004, at the age of 13, Oprah spoke at his funeral. Then, in the final season of The Oprah Winfrey Show, she selected Mattie as one of her all-time favorite guests. Watch to learn more about the child Oprah called "a prophet for our time, who just happened to be dressed in little-boy clothes."

Original airdate: May 20, 2011