LOS ANGELES, Calif. – The national spinal cord injury (SCI) community is mourning the loss of a beloved advocate and mentor.
Kyle McKittrick, a prominent Ambassador for the Triumph Foundation, passed away on Sunday, December 14, after suffering a catastrophic brain hemorrhage triggered by a severe episode of autonomic dysreflexia (AD).
A Sudden Medical Crisis
According to a statement from his family and the Triumph Foundation, McKittrick was hospitalized last week after experiencing severe symptoms of AD—a potentially life-threatening condition for individuals with spinal cord injuries that causes dangerous spikes in blood pressure.
Despite advocacy from his partner, Emily, and family for extensive testing, the exact cause of the AD episode remained unclear. After multiple days of extreme blood pressure spikes exceeding 200 systolic, McKittrick suffered a brain hemorrhage. He was placed on life support.
Surrounded by loved ones and guided by his known wishes, his family made the difficult decision to remove life support. He passed away peacefully.
A Legacy of Strength and Advocacy
The Triumph Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to helping those with spinal cord injuries, described McKittrick’s passing as a “significant and devastating loss.”
“Kyle’s passing is a heartbreaking reminder that the dangers of secondary health complications for people living with spinal cord injury are very real,” the organization stated. They emphasized the critical need for specialized medical care and relentless self-advocacy within the SCI community.
Plans to celebrate McKittrick’s life will be announced soon. His family requests it reflect his extraordinary character—his strength, humor, loyalty, and the immense heart he brought to every room.