Birthday

Aug. 2, 1993

Home and family

Luke is the son of Brad and Gloria Christie of Due West, S.C. He has two older brothers, Parker and Spencer, a dog, a cat and goldfish.

Health history

Luke has type 2 spinal muscular atrophy, a progressive neuromuscular disease that causes muscle weakness. He uses a power wheelchair for mobility.

School

Luke is a sophomore at Furman University in Greenville, S.C., and plans to pursue a career in the communications field. While in high school, Luke was the president of South Carolina's Future Business Leaders of America, active in The National Beta Club, and served as the arts and entertainment editor for his school newspaper.

Interests

Country music, public speaking, reading novels, writing, swimming and “hanging out” with friends are just some of Luke’s interests. Luke is an Eagle Scout, a collegiate DECA member, and acts and volunteers at a community theater.

MDA role

As MDA National Youth Chairman, Luke spearheads the efforts of thousands of teenagers and young adults who help with the Association's lifesaving mission. He supports MDA through appearances at sponsor and volunteer events and through media interviews.

MDA activities

Luke has served as MDA National Youth Chairman since 2009. He appeared with his family on the national broadcast of the MDA Labor Day Telethon in 2005, 2006 and 2007 to share his story, and again in 2009, 2010 and 2011 as co-host of the youth segments of the show. Previously, Luke served as the MDA National Goodwill Ambassador in 2006 and 2007, and the MDA Harley-Davidson Goodwill Ambassador in 2008.