Remembering David Lytle
June 19, 2007David Lytle, 39, of Litchfield, Township, Ohio passed away suddenly on Saturday, June 16, 2007. David was not only a friend of the Lupus 
Foundation of America (LFA), but also a devoted advocate and supporter of all people with lupus. Although we only knew David for a short time, he made a tremendous impact, inspiring a campaign that generated more than a quarter million dollars for lupus research and education programs, and still growing!
David was a quadriplegic due to severe injuries he received as a teenager. However, he did not let his injuries stop him from living a fulfilling life. He attended Ohio State College and Kent State University, and after graduating he began a rewarding career.
While in college, David met Kassie McMullin and they became the closest of friends. Kassie became David's caretaker and helped him almost daily. Kassie was diagnosed with lupus at age 10 and she shared many physical challenges, as well. Kassie and David were committed to live everyday to its fullest.
Kassie eventually married and, despite lupus, gave birth to a beautiful baby boy named Mikey. Tragically, ten months after giving birth, Kassie suddenly passed away one week before her 31st birthday, from complications of lupus.
In Kassie’s memory, David dedicated himself to help find a cure for lupus. So in 2005, when the NBC TODAY Show invited viewers to nominate a nonprofit organization to benefit from the show’s annual Green Room celebrity autograph book auction, David submitted Kassie’s story, telling of her struggle with lupus, as well as her optimism and courage. He nominated the Lupus Foundation of America to be the benefactor.
The story David submitted really touched the hearts of the TODAY Show cast and crew and LFA was selected to receive the proceeds from the annual eBay auction. Katie Couric narrated a heart-felt story about Kassie’s life and her dream to find a cure for lupus. The story inspired people to support the LFA and bid on the autograph book.
As a result of the outpouring of support, the Kassie McMullin Biglow Memorial Research Grant was founded. Others took up the challenge and donated matching gifts. Today, more than $250,000 has been raised for lupus research and education programs. And these efforts continue.
To honor his quest to find the cure for lupus and to continue Kassie's Fund, David’s family has designated the Lupus Foundation of America to receive gifts in his memory. You can make a donation online and support David’s dream to find a cure for lupus.
David Lytle was a true champion for all people with lupus. He was a hero. And all of us at the Lupus Foundation of America will truly miss him.
Watch the NBC TODAY Show video about Kassie’s Story submitted by David Lytle.
Watch the LFA Video, This is Lupus, which features Kassie’s father, Joe McMullin.